What is an Acceptable Behaviour Contract (commonly known as an ‘ABC’)?
A. If the police or a local authority has evidence that your, or a friend’s, behaviour is causing problems for the community, they can ask you to sign an ABC. ABCs can be given to anyone no matter how old they are. An ABC is a voluntary written agreement, it is not a criminal record but it does list a number of things that you can no longer do, like hanging out in certain areas with certain people. By signing the agreement, you agree to stop the unacceptable behaviour and follow any other requirements of the contract. You may have to attend school or college more regularly or attend counselling sessions. The agreement is also signed by the local organisation that wants to stop the behaviour. This may be the police, a local authority or a youth offending team. If the contract involves someone under 18, their parent or carer will also have to sign it. ABCs usually last for six months and you will be monitored by the local organisation that also signed the contract to ensure the agreement
