Drug use, nuisance noise and neighbourhood disputes are issues that the new Derby Homes Anti-Social Behaviour and Community Safety Apprentice has already had to deal with in her new role. 

Renee Beesley is thoroughly enjoying her new role as she never knows what’s going to be reported each day.  

She was one of the first ASB Apprentices in the country and the Level 4 Apprenticeship is the first-ever to focus on tackling ASB and improving Community Safety. 

“I’ve already learnt so much. I’ve seen how we can support the most vulnerable people in the city and that’s something that is really rewarding. To finish a shift, come home and think back what a difference we make to people’s lives is very fulfilling. 

“I’ve picked up quite a lot of different skills to engage with our tenants and sometimes have to think outside the box to get the right solutions for all of our customers.” 

The training, ran by RESOLVE, is designed to support frontline officers in understanding the complexities of supporting victims of crime while developing preventative measures to keep communities safe. 

The apprenticeship is a blended learning approach, with on the job training, online learning and formal assignments to assess the apprentices' progression and development.  

Renee has already learnt about risk assessments, community safety, effective partnership working and understanding the principles, practices and ASB legislation. 

“I’m loving my new role, I’m a people person and I feel like I can really make a positive difference to people’s lives.  

“Derby Homes is also a great place to work as they look after their staff. I’ve got family that work here and family that are tenants, so I’ve got an understanding from both sides. 

”I’m hoping after I’ve completed my apprenticeship I’ll be able to achieve a full-time position at Derby Homes. I already can’t wait to become a fully-fledged ASB Officer.” 

Renee’s expectations of an interesting role have already been met when she was invited to a drugs raid in the city centre last summer, something she never thought she’d be able to witness. 

“It was exciting I’m not going to lie. Maybe not quite as thrilling as you see in the movies, but still! Although it wasn’t safe to go inside the property, it was interesting to see how we work with our partners such as Derbyshire Constabulary and tackle the harder issues. 

“Every case is different and that’s why we need to adapt our approach and work with partners to come to the best solution.  We have a lot of help from the Police and Derby City Council, who we’ve got a great working relationship with. The end goal for us is always the same – we want to ensure that we tackle behaviour to create a positive impact and improve our communities.