Neighbourhood Street Warden service goes live
The primary aims of the new team are to tackle low level anti social behaviour, (the kind of issues that the police are unable to respond to) and to reduce the fear of crime.
They have received extensive training from the council, the police and various other partner agencies, which includes gathering evidence and statement taking, although they have no additional legal powers.
They can also be called upon to act as professional witnesses. They will take part in remedial work and problem solving ranging from joint police/council home visits to assisting with prosecutions. The team will also carry out reassurance visits to vulnerable residents during the course of their working day.
The team will attempt to build up rapport with local community groups and groups of youths, they will also work closely with the police. The team should not be seen as either a pseudo police force or as a security company, more a friendly, highly visible extension of existing council services that operate out of normal hours.
