Community Support Boosts Graffiti Reporting Scheme

Hailsham Town Council’s online graffiti reporting scheme has been warmly received by residents since its launch last year, providing a simple and effective way for the public to help tackle vandalism and protect the town’s public spaces.

The scheme enables residents to quickly report graffiti, vandalism or damage to Town Council-owned property using an easy-to-complete online form. Since its introduction, members of the public have made good use of the service, allowing the Council’s maintenance team to respond more efficiently and arrange repairs or graffiti removal as quickly as possible.

To make reporting even easier, QR code stickers have been installed on Town Council-maintained assets, including bus shelters, noticeboards, play areas and community buildings. By scanning the code with a mobile phone, residents can submit a report immediately while out and about.

The reporting scheme has proved particularly valuable in recent months, following an increase in graffiti at locations including the Tony Tack Memorial Skate Park, community noticeboards, bus shelters and other public facilities. While the Town Council is committed to removing graffiti as quickly as possible, every incident requires staff time and resources that could otherwise be spent on improving and maintaining community facilities.

Tony Lee, Operations & Facilities Manager at Hailsham Town Council, said: “We’re really pleased with how well the reporting scheme has been received. Residents have embraced the opportunity to let us know when they spot graffiti or damage, and the information they provide allows us to respond much more quickly.”

“It’s encouraging to see the community taking such an active role in looking after the town. By working together, we’re able to address problems sooner, discourage further vandalism and help keep Hailsham looking clean, welcoming and well cared for.”

Cllr Dave Chapman, Chair of the Assets Management Committee, said: “It’s encouraging to see so many residents getting behind this initiative. The reporting scheme has made it easier than ever for people to let us know when graffiti or vandalism occurs, and that support is helping us respond more quickly and effectively.”

“Our parks, play areas, bus shelters and other public facilities belong to the whole community, and it’s important that we all play a part in looking after them. By reporting damage as soon as it’s spotted, residents are helping us maintain these valued assets for everyone to enjoy and sending a clear message that vandalism has no place in Hailsham.”

Hailsham Town Council continues to work closely with Sussex Police and local partners to tackle anti-social behaviour and reduce incidents of vandalism. The Council hopes that residents will continue to use the reporting scheme to help protect community assets and ensure public spaces remain safe and attractive for everyone.

Anyone wishing to report graffiti or damage to Town Council property can do so via the online reporting form on the Town Council’s website or by scanning one of the QR codes displayed on Town Council-maintained facilities throughout Hailsham.