A WEST Devon housing provider has recently signed up to a standard aimed at tackling anti-social behaviour and promotion of respect within the community.

West Devon Homes has received a certificate, after signing up to the Respect Standard for Housing Management, part of the Government's Respect Action Plan.

Over the last 18 months the company has significantly improved the way in which it records and monitors ongoing cases.

Auditors have checked the new systems and identified them as 'good practice'.

The company said last year 96% of cases were closed following early intervention by the neighbourhoods and communities team without the need for legal action.

A spokesperson for West Devon Homes said: 'The majority of our tenants are law abiding and take care of their properties and the places where they live.

'Unfortunately there is a small minority who spoil it for others and West Devon Homes works with tenants, with communities, and with other agencies to tackle unacceptable behaviour to improve the quality of life for all local residents.

'West Devon Homes would like to thank West Devon Borough Council, Devon and Cornwall Constabulary, Social Services, the Community Mental Health team, and others we work with for continuing to support our efforts in this area.'