Crime Reduction Programme
Neighbourhood Wardens
In September 1998, the Social Exclusion Unit published a report on deprived neighbourhoods which analysed the problems facing the most deprived places in the country, and set out a major work programme to tackle the complex web of problems which conspire to keep poor places poor. 18 teams of experts (Policy Action Teams) were established to consider how to improve the quality of services in poor neighbourhoods. The results of this extensive research and consultation programme culminated in the publication of the National Strategy for Neighbourhood Renewal in January 2001.
Policy Action Team 6 looked at the merits of warden-style approaches, including community patrols, park keepers, concierges, caretakers, and neighbourhood support workers. They published a final report in 2000.
Over the following 5 years, the Department for Communities and Local Government (as it is now) and the Home Office jointly supported the expansion and establishment of 244 pilot warden schemes in different areas.
Warden schemes are designed to address the concerns of local communities. Wardens are popular, visible, operate within neighbourhoods, and play an important role in making communities cleaner, safer, and greener. Wardens are trusted by local people, young and old. Several schemes have introduced junior wardens and work with local schools to encourage and educate young people to take more pride in their community and show respect for their neighbourhood.
Most warden schemes form part of a neighbourhood management approach, and are closely linked with neighbourhood policing teams. Wardens are not part of the police structure, but are normally employed by organisations like local authorities and registered social landlords.
Independent research shows that wardens schemes help to reduce crime and fear of crime, tackle anti-social behaviour, increase people’s satisfaction with where they live and with key local services like policing and the local environment, empower local people to have a say in what happens locally, and help to build links with all sections of the local community.
CLG has not funded warden schemes directly since 2006, but now provides funds for building safer and stronger communities through Local Area Agreements.
Schemes are supported by Neighbourhood Training and Resource Centres, which exist in most regions. These provide comprehensive guidance on wardening issues, NVQ and other training for front line staff, and manage the warden scheme Quality Standard. They promote wardening generally and highlight good practice. Resource Centres also provide a range of additional neighbourhood services, including resident consultations and community development work, project evaluation, and youth initiatives (e.g. training for Young Advisors). The Resource Centres have formed themselves into a national support network called the Neighbourhood Alliance to promote their work nationally and in each region – the Alliance’s website provides more information about the services offered by the RCs: http://www.neighbourhoodalliance.org.uk/.
Last update: Friday, January 09, 2009