Cases of antisocial behaviour in Cleveland are to be dealt with more efficiently between police and partner agencies thanks to a new high-tech computer system.

ECINS has been funded by Police and Crime Commissioner Barry Coppinger to act as a central hub for information, bringing reports of antisocial behaviour together in one place.

Previously, partner agencies held information on separate systems and shared their knowledge in face-to-face meetings. ECINS will allow case workers to have quick-time access to reports, hold virtual meetings and to share information and make decisions in quick-time. This will minimise delays in processes and avoid the duplication of more than one agency visiting someone.

Local authorities, housing associations and other service providers will use ECINS and Cleveland Police has initiated training on its use.

Police and Crime Commissioner Barry Coppinger said: “ECINS is used successfully in other parts of the country so I was keen to explore it further as an option for Teesside.

“I’m pleased that we are now able to launch the system, which I believe is money well spent to improve the way in which police and partners deal with neighbourhood issues and predominantly antisocial behaviour. If we can tackle antisocial behaviour successfully and nip it in the bud, then we can reduce the devastating impact it has on communities in the longer term.”

Temporary Deputy Chief Constable Simon Nickless said: “Tackling antisocial behaviour and dealing with vulnerability is the not the sole responsibility of any single organisation, but must be dealt as a partnership response between all the relevant agencies.

“ECINS is a common sense approach to partnership working and builds upon the work already in place. I welcome the launch in Cleveland and would like to thank partner agencies for agreeing to be on board.”