Neighbourhood Wardens helping to reduce social isolation

The local neighbourhood wardens for the Steyning, Upper Beeding and Bramber areas have been engaging with older residents in the communities, as well as working with organisations and voluntary groups, to help reduce social isolation.

Wardens Paul Conroy and Michael Pearce run a weekly club at Dingemans Court and arrange quizzes, indoor sports sessions, afternoon teas and trips to garden centres and theatres.

Paul and Michael also attend the monthly Vintage Years Club meetings at Steyning Community Centre, giving out safety messages to older people, helping with transport and getting to know the local residents.
 
Paul said: “This is definitely one of the most rewarding parts of our role as neighbourhood wardens. Working with older people in the community gives us the opportunity to make a difference in their lives by interacting with them on a social level. Our club has been running for over two years now and we have got to know the members very well and consider them as our friends.”

Michael added: “We are also hoping to build upon our existing relationship with the Upper Beeding lunch club and will be seeking ways to socially include a greater number of residents from across the three parishes in the coming year.”

Paul and Michael have started running monthly ‘surgeries’ so local people can meet with them to discuss any issues or concerns. The next one in Steyning is on Wednesday 8th March in the Steyning Centre from 11am – 12 noon. There will also be a surgery at Upper Beeding Hub on Friday 24th March from 11am – 12 noon.

The Neighbourhood Warden Scheme aims to provide a reassuring presence in the community. Wardens can deal with issues such as anti-social behaviour and dog fouling; they offer advice on crime prevention; liaise with vulnerable residents and refer crime incidents to the Police, acting as professional witnesses. They are not, however, a replacement for the Police, nor are they an emergency service.

If you would like to get in touch with the neighbourhood Wardens, you can call Paul on 07734 387889 or Michael on 07734 387888 or via twitter @HorshamWardens.