Job Description
Neighbourhood wardens will help reduce anti-social behaviour by being seen out on the streets, they respond to incidents and report any crimes to police, they will alert the council and other authorities about any environmental issues, get involved in community activities, support older and vulnerable people in the community and check to make sure empty properties are safe and secure.
Entry Requirements
You can get into this job through:
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 with GCSEs in English and maths, 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.
Volunteering
You could search Do-it 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.
Career Tips
You'll need to pass enhanced background checks. Some employers will ask for you to have a driving licence and be aged 21 or over so that you can drive a company vehicle. Other employers would only ask that you're able to ride a bicycle supplied by them.
You can find out more about becoming a neighbourhood warden from your local council.
Although this job role does not require formal qualifications, we highly recommend that you try to achieve at least a grade 4 (C) in English & Maths. Achieving this minimum grade in these subject will increase opportunities in the future and help with your career development and prospects.
If you don't achieve the minimum grades, you will be supported to continue to study English and Maths throughout your full-time education or an apprenticeship.
Career Path and Progression
With experience, you could become an assistant head warden, senior warden, or warden coordinator.
Related careers you may be interested in:
- Accommodation warden
- Civil enforcement officer
- Police community support officer
Required Skills
- Ability to communicate and get on with people from all ages and backgrounds
- The ability to be open minded and able to build trust
- A confident and assertive manner
- Tact and diplomacy
- Able to react quickly in unexpected situations
- A good level of fitness
- The ability to handle aggressive behaviour in a tactful manner
Salary Range
£17,000 to £28,000
