Neighbourhood Warden

Job Description:

Neighbourhood wardens work in local communities to reduce anti-social behaviour.

Job Category:
Government & Public Services
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What you will do:

You could:

  • respond to anti-social behaviour incidents
  • report crime to the police
  • tell the council and other authorities about environmental problems
  • issue fixed penalty notices for litter, graffiti and dog fouling
  • make sure empty properties are safe and secure
  • support older and vulnerable people in the area
  • get involved in community activities
  • visit schools and attend community and resident meetings
  • share information with other agencies like the police, community groups, social landlords and tenants’ associations

Skills:

You’ll need:

  • knowledge of public safety and security
  • customer service skills
  • to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

As well as:

  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
  • the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail (organisational skills)
  • active listening skills
  • concentration skills
  • to be flexible and open to change (adaptability skills)
Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

The specific requirements to become a Neighbourhood Warden may vary depending on the employing organisation or local government authority. Neighbourhood Wardens typically work in roles related to community safety, public engagement, and local problem-solving. While there may not be strict subject requirements, having a well-rounded education and certain skills can be beneficial for this role. Here are some subjects and skills that could be relevant:

  1. English Language: Good communication skills, including written and verbal communication, are essential for engaging with the community and addressing concerns.
  2. Mathematics: Basic math skills are important for tasks such as record-keeping, data analysis, and budget management.
  3. Citizenship Studies or Social Sciences: Subjects like Citizenship Studies or other social sciences can provide you with an understanding of community issues, social dynamics, and local government operations.
  4. Physical Education (PE): Physical fitness and the ability to handle physical tasks may be required, as Neighbourhood Wardens often engage in outdoor activities and community patrols.
  5. ICT (Information and Communication Technology): Basic computer skills are useful for record-keeping, report writing, and using software tools.
  6. Geography: Geography can provide you with an understanding of local geography, land use, and environmental issues, which may be relevant to your role.

Post School

You can get into this job through:

  • an apprenticeship
  • work
  • volunteering
  • applying directly

Apprenticeship

You could take:

  • a community safety adviser advanced apprenticeship
  • an anti-social behaviour and community safety officer higher apprenticeship

Work

You could work your way into this role from other positions within housing associations, the local authority or security companies working for housing providers.

Volunteering

You could search for volunteering opportunities where you could develop the skills needed to get a job as a neighbourhood warden.

Opportunities may be offered by your local council or other organisations working with people with issues like homelessness, substance misuse, or anti-social behaviour.

Direct Application

You may not need any qualifications to become a neighbourhood warden, although some employers may prefer you to have a good general standard of education and experience of working with the public.

Employers will often focus on your personal qualities and people skills. It may be an advantage to have a clear understanding of the issues faced by the community you will be working in.

You’ll usually have induction training, lasting around 12 weeks, while you get to know your area and the issues you might face.

Further information

You can find out more about becoming a neighbourhood warden from your local council.

Working Hours and Environment:

A typical week consists of 40-42 hours of work. You could be required to work evenings/weekends/bank holidays on a rota.

You could work in the community. You may need to wear a uniform.

Career Path & Progression:

With experience, you could become an assistant head warden, senior warden, or warden coordinator.

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