§ Mr. LepperTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister in what locations neighbourhood warden schemes are in operation; how many wardens have been appointed in each location; and if he will make a statement on the future funding of neighbourhood warden schemes. [118427]
§ Yvette CooperThe Neighbourhood Warden Team (NWT) funds 245 warden schemes, which operate in England and Wales comprising nearly 1,500 wardens. Numbers of wardens in each region breaks down as follows:
England
- North-east—131
- North-west—301
- South-west—107
- Eastern—69
- East midlands—58
1063W - West midlands—172
- South-east—92
- Yorkshire and the Humber—174
- London—321
- Wales—21
- Total—1,446
Future funding—the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister is keen that all funded schemes continue. However, Government funding for warden schemes was awarded on a short-term basis, and it was clear from the start that this financial support would only be for a limited period. The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister already has examples of local authorities and housing Associations that are mainstreaming schemes.
The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister is working closely with all schemes in the development of their future sustainability plans. Events are being held and guidance has been produced for scheme managers. The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister is promoting the Wardens approach, particularly as a key element of neighbourhood management.