On day one of operations Hackney s new Community Safety Wardens recovered a firearm, three knives and a batch of cannabis, while working in conjunction with various police units.


The new service officially launches on 1 March, but after completing the Metropolitan Police approved training to ensure all Wardens are CSAS (Community Safety Accreditation Scheme) trained, the new team hit the streets for the first time last week. A key function of Hackney s CCTV and Emergency Planning Service, the new recruits will act as the primary point of contact for residents on matters of community safety, a key priority of Hackney Council.


The 12 wardens will have the power to require giving of names and addresses, issue Fixed Penalty Notices for a number of offences including littering, graffiti and dog fouling as well as tackling issues around anti-social behaviour. Using intelligence-led tasking, the team will work with the police and community forums to help identify and ensure that the team is dispersed to areas that require the most attention as well as escalating issues to relevant partners, including the Council and emergency services. The wardens have also undergone training in partnership with the Council s Sustainable Transport Team and are on hand to provide cyclists with information about safe cycling routes and keeping safe on the road.


David Shipp, joint Lead Community Safety Warden, said: "The wardens extensive training programme means they can support the work of the Drug and Alcohol Action Team, the Sharps Disposal Unit and the Anti Social Behaviour service. I m confident that the team can recognise, escalate and support the resolution of all relevant issues that emerge on patrol. We will also seek to educate residents in the key services we provide and will work in partnership to keep our streets and parks clean and safe. "


Councillor Sophie Linden, Cabinet Member for Crime, Sustainability and Customer Services, said: "The new Community Safety Warden service has already proved that a joined-up, intelligence-led approach achieves results. Working with both the Police and neighbourhood community groups alongside other partners and residents will help to inform the wardens daily operations and patrols. This partnership working is key to the success of the service as well as making Hackney a safer place to live and work."


The wardens can help to address issues affecting your community. They will also be able to direct you towards and provide information on other council services where relevant. If you would like to contact your neighbourhood Warden, or invite them to a community event or group meeting, call: 020 8356 6867 (general enquires number, available 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday); or for more information about the service, visit: www.hackney.gov.uk/safercommunities.