Meet the Neighbourhood Wardens

North Devon’s first Neighbourhood Wardens, Helen Frisby and Andrew Kellaway, started work in August 2005. They are being funded by Transform, the Neighbourhood Management Programme, to be the “Feet on the Street” in Ilfracombe, Combe Martin and Bratton Fleming.

The Transform team asked a group of residents in each community what they want wardens to do, and the consensus was that they should work with young people, look out for vulnerable people, bring old and young together, and be a point of contact between residents and agencies to help sort out any problems in the neighbourhood. Residents were keen that the Wardens should not be seen as “enforcers”, but that they should have an enabling role; doing things like supporting youth activities and helping people to access services.

The Wardens went through a short period of training during August, started meeting local people in September and will be fully in action by the end of September. They are wearing an informal uniform in navy blue with the Transform logo and the words "Neighbourhood Warden" on the backs of their jackets.

They are keen to meet local groups and be active at local events. Call Transform on 01271 867131 to make contact and to find out how they can help you.