The Neighbourhood Wardens Team administers a programme that funds a uniformed semi-official presence in residential and high crime areas with the aim of reducing crime and the fear of crime and improving the environment, quality of life and safety. Neighbourhood wardens work closely with residents, police and local authorities to tackle deprivation and anti-social behaviour at grassroots level. They promote community safety and community engagement, assist with environmental or housing improvements and help with neighbourhood management, fostering social inclusion. Often they provide a reassuring presence in a community, and have a number of roles depending on local needs. The Neighbourhood website provides plenty of information on wardening, including funding, awards and training visit www.neighbourhood.gov.uk/nmwt/wardens.asp or telephone 020 7944 2537 . There is also an online resource for warden scheme managers and practitioners to share good practice, news stories and other items of interest at www.ecommunities.odpm.gov.uk

Training for businesses and local authorities on harassment law, how to collect evidence and prosecute for harassment. This site is particularly useful if developing harassment policies, or to find out the details of the Protection from Harassment Act 1997. Harassment includes sexual and racial harassment, stalking, malicious communication and bullying.

Visit www.harassment-law.co.uk or telephone 07970 981352

Community Support Officers do not have the same powers as a fully fledged police officer, yet they are a visible patrolling presence and an effective crime deterrent, especially with regard to anti-social behaviour. As well as being able to issue fixed penalty tickets for minor anti-social behaviour, CSOs can demand the name and address of a person acting in an anti-social manner. Other CSO powers include being able to confiscate alcohol being consumed in a public place, confiscate tobacco from young people and seize any vehicles that are being used to potentially harm other people.

For more information visit www.homeoffice.gov.uk/crime/communitysafety/#4 Or visit the online information resource for crime reduction at www.crimereduction.gov.uk or telephone 01347 825 058

A practical kit provided by ENCAMS and the Neighbourhood Renewal Unit for community wardens to use locally. It is a toolbox which contains all the materials needed to conduct a clean-up of graffiti in a local area, however it cannot be used without the appropriate training. The kits are only available to warden teams. If you are a warden or if you are a member of a community that would like your warden to become involved please telephone 01942 612639.

Shelter helps 100,000 people a year fight for their rights, get back on their feet, and find and keep a home. It also tackles the root causes of Britain's housing crisis by campaigning for new laws, policies and solutions. For publications, information on training, research, advice or support visit www.shelter.org.uk telephone: 020 7505 4699