Who is most likely to complain about noise?
This article provides some more information about the people who complain about noise. We’ve provided plenty of information previously, following our noise surveys, that highlights the problems that people in densely populated areas suffer with. More recently we looked into the age and gender profiles of people using our services online.
The collection of community data has taken place for millennia, in the form of censuses, and used to shape public services. In the same way, local and national demographic data on nuisances can help organisations that respond to noise issues target resources and improve outcomes. As well as geographical noise hotspots, it can be useful to help determine whether certain groups are unable to access noise services or those who most frequently use them. Local authorities and social housing providers can, in particular, use the information to act proactively in preventing noise, in planning to prevent noise impacts or in the development of housing policies or strategy.
Analysis of Age and Gender
The following results were found in relation to age groups. There is a dramatic rise in enquiries from those based in the 55-64 year age group; with, broadly speaking, demand for services rising with age (and apparently it is not because older people are more grumpy).
| Age | Percentage |
|---|---|
| 18-24 | 1.8% |
| 25-34 | 6.9% |
| 35-44 | 7.6% |
| 45-54 | 13.2% |
| 55-64 | 42.5% |
| 65+ | 17.2% |
| Unknown | 37.2% |
A significantly larger proportion of females requested services over males.
| Gender | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Male | 23.1% |
| Female | 39.3% |
| Unknown | 37.6% |
Digital Exclusion and Access to Noise Services
We know that the following groups are more likely to be digitally excluded:
- Those in social housing
- The unemployed
- Older people
We also know that these are the very people who are more likely to be affected by noise pollution. This may explain why our figures show the percentage of those people accessing our services tail off in the 65+ age group; although research has also shown that older people are less likely to complain.
Much of the communication carried out by local enforcement bodies is carried out via email. There have also been amazing innovations like the noise app that help sufferers to tackle noise issues. A key message for public services therefore has to be that, whilst digital services can enhance and empower communities significantly, they must consider how they will support particular groups whose access to the web is restricted.
Read more about our noise research.
Noise Nuisance 
Hi my neighbour is barking all the time and I have a disability and feel disturbed by it. It can last for bout 2 hours the barking and when they go out the barks is continuous. Am fed up of it now and the neighbour is causing problems for me and causing a scene to everyone else in the street. I have recorded the noise of the dog barking an made a diary out of it. If it does continue I would like to move house
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You have taken the correct first steps. I hope you are still not suffering from the issue. Usually this is a problem that can be resolved fairly quickly.
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