Evaluation backs community warden scheme

A 30-month study examining the impact and implementation of community warden schemes across Scotland was published last month and researchers conclude that the wardens are making a “positive difference where they operate”.

The draft findings of a separate economic evaluation of warden schemes, undertaken as part of a wider study of anti-social behaviour (ASB) strategies, conclude that evidence from local case studies suggests they are having a positive impact on reducing antisocial behaviour and represent good value for money.

Deputy Justice Minister Johann Lamont said: “More than 500 community wardens across Scotland play an important part in tackling anti-social behaviour, both complementing and directly supporting the work of police and council ASB teams.

“I welcome the findings that show they are playing a positive role – a view that I have heard directly from people in many of the communities where wardens are operating.”

Good practice from local warden schemes highlighted in the report include co-location and strong relationships with community safety partners in Perthand East Renfrewshire, problem solving approaches in South Lanarkshire and information sharing and community engagement in Dundee.

Factors identified as key to wardens’ success, include:

• Good interpersonal skills.
• Flexibility to respond to demands where and when they arise.
• Independence from other agencies to help build community relations.
• Deployment which visibly responds to local concerns.
• Close working with other agencies.
• Communicating with young people to explain impact of antisocial behaviour, when appropriate, rather than taking `authoritarian` approach.

The report recommendations include:

• Closer links between funding for wardens schemes and severity of crime and antisocial behaviour.
• Provision of advice on setting appropriate and meaningful baselines, targets and comparators.
• Assessment and provision of appropriate training, including health and safety issues.
• Central guidance on salaries, career development and working conditions for Scotland-wide initiatives.
• Consideration of collaboration and staff exchanges to share experiences and good practice for national schemes.