More street wardens funded to help tackle violence against women and girls across Wiltshire

Night-time economy wardens have begun patrols in Trowbridge with the aim of tackling violence against women and girls and reducing anti-social behavior in Wiltshire. 

The wardens, funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC), patrol the town centre on Friday and Saturday nights and are specially trained to recognise, step in and de-escalate potentially volatile situations, as well as identifying people who may be vulnerable and in need of help. 

The first night-time economy wardens scheme was launched in Salisbury in February, with the team there undertaking 80 hours of patrols within the first quarter. 

A total of 197 events were reported by the Wardens, 70% of which accounted for check-ins with venues and general observations on footfall within the city centre.   

Both schemes have been funded following a successful bid from the OPCC to the Home Office’s “Safer Streets” fund which will see more than £800,000 spent on initiatives across Wiltshire and Swindon. 

Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said: “Safer public spaces for all our communities – and a safer night-time economy – in Wiltshire is a key priority within my police and crime plan and for Wiltshire Police. Our communities tell me they want to feel safer and for crimes, like anti-social behaviour in our public spaces, to be tackled robustly. 

“Having night-time economy wardens in Trowbridge, as well as Salisbury, is a great step towards tackling violence against women and girls, as these wardens will bolster existing neighbourhood and response policing teams - they are not a replacement for them.  

“Both the Chief Constable and I remain committed to visible, community-based, policing. 

“Our wardens will be a continual presence in the town centre, with a focus on safety and intervention-based patrols, to ensure everyone can enjoy a safer night out but especially so women and girls can feel reassured and safe." 

For more information on Safer Streets funding, please click here. 

Published Thursday 24 May 2024