To receive an update on the Community Wardens.

David Scott, Head of Communities, gave a presentation updating the Panel on Community Wardens. Presentation will be attached to the minutes.

David Scott informed the Panel that a report had been presented to the Panel in September 2019 and the Panel had requested a further update.

Councillor Price complimented the service and informed the Panel that all queries had been responded to promptly, very courteously and to the satisfaction of councillors and residents. Councillor Price was also very happy to hear that body cameras were now provided, which would assist to protect the community wardens.

Andy Aldridge, Community Warden Lead, informed the Panel that he was very proud of all of the borough’s Community Wardens and their positive attitudes. A Community Warden had lost their life to Covid-19 but the others had carried on working even though it was very difficult. This would be passed on to them.

Councillor Del Campo echoed all that had been said and added that the great service was often above and beyond. She thanked all Community Wardens and expressed condolences to the family of Dave Lee and all the Community Wardens team. Councillor Del Campo requested a structure chart for the Community Wardens.

ACTION: Provide Panel with a structure chart of the Community Wardens

Councillor Del Campo asked if Community Wardens were trained to signpost to other support services. The Panel were informed that all Community Wardens were trained and armed with as much information as possible on such as mental health, increased cannabis use, hot spot areas and that safeguarding was at the forefront as well as enforcement. Andy Aldridge explained that recently 14-18 year olds were being identified as vulnerable and they had been signposted to the correct support groups.

Councillor Del Campo asked what new powers had now been also given to Community Wardens. Andy Aldridge said that Community Wardens could now ask for a name and address which they could not previously do, and said that Community Wardens could use their body videos and the cycling enforcement powers were being investigated to have a delegation from the police and given to Community Wardens. Also the borough could apply for additional powers if required, and these would be considered to be accredited by Thames Valley Police. The use of these powers under CSAS (Community Safety Accreditation Scheme) are reviewed every three months.

Councillor Bhangra agreed with the other Panel Members and added that the Community Wardens were always good in responding and taking action when required. The Community Warden in Boyn Hill ward had assisted in nitrogen oxide misuse, this was currently a national problem.

Councillor Hunt thanked Andy Aldridge and David Scott for all of their hard work over the years and requested an up to date Thames Valley Police contact list. Andy Aldridge to check with TVP and circulate to Panel Members.

ACTION: Andy Aldridge to circulate an up to date contact list for TVP

Councillor Stimson informed the Panel and the Community Warden Lead that many residents had complained about youngsters making a lot of noise as late as 2am and as early as 6am at Kidwells Park. Councillor Stimson requested if this could be looked into and left it with Andy Aldridge to look into further. Andy Aldridge informed the Panel that this was taking place outside the hours of Community Wardens and police assistance would be required. Andy Aldridge would look into a joint operation.

ACTION: Andy Aldridge to  report back to Councillor Stimson.