Bashir Ahmed, Manager of Walsall Neighbourhood Wardens, was presented with the National Manager of the Year award by Yvette Cooper MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, on 14th November 2003. The awards recognise the 'outstanding work by Neighbourhood Wardens in enhancing the lives of communities across the country' and Bashir won his award for the time and dedication he has given to running and expanding the Wardens scheme in Walsall.

Bashir was appointed as manager of WHRA when it formed in 2000 and has been directly responsible for the recruitment of the Wardens, employing Wardens that reflect the diversity of the communities in which they work, with multi-ethnic backgrounds, male and female and an age range from early twenties to fifty years old. Bashir also co-ordinates the West Midlands Regional Wardens Network; is an NVQ assessor for the Wardens NVQ qualification; and shares his expertise with other agencies setting up Wardens' schemes.

Bashir said: "I was honoured to receive the award which recognises the good work that the Wardens have achieved in Walsall over the last two years. It is good to see Walsall receiving national recognition for its team of Wardens, which is seen as one of the best in the country." Bashir will receive £1000 in prize money, which will be spent on developing the Wardens team, and £500 worth of equipment for use by the Wardens.

ASIAN WARDENS HELP COMMUNITY NEIGHBOURHOODS

Wardens across England from black, and minority ethnic backgrounds are playing a vital part in improving the quality of life in their neighbourhoods, and bringing their communities closer together, said Jeff Rooker, the Minister for Regeneration. He added: "Wardens' schemes in many areas have recruited staff from black, Asian and other ethnic minority groups, and have quickly formed productive links with residents, building bridges within the community and encouraging social cohesion.

"Communities can benefit in many ways, as wardens are also well-placed to identify tension, and to make sure that minority ethnic groups are consulted rather than excluded, when key decisions about local services affecting their lives are made.

"In addition to tackling day-to-day problems such as litter, graffiti and vandalism, Neighbourhood Wardens can make real changes to the communities they live in, and encourage people form traditionally marginalised groups to get involved in other community activities.

"Being a neighbourhood warden can also boost self-esteem and confidence, and help people feel that they are making a valuable contribution to the lives of those around them."

Bashir Ahmed said: "I would really like to see more people from black, Asian and other groups coming forward to apply to become wardens. It's a very rewarding job, and I would recommend it as a great way to get involved with your local community. When a tree is planted the fruits benefit everyone: so it is with wardens."

ABOUT NEIGHBOURHOOD WARDENS

Neighbourhood wardens provide a uniformed semi-official presence in residential areas and high streets, with the aim of improving quality of life. Wardens may patrol, carry out concierge duties, and generally contribute to effective neighbourhood management. They are also a key element of the National Strategy for Neighbourhood Renewal.

Neighbourhood wardens are not volunteers, but receive a wage for the work they do. Neighbourhood Warden schemes are generally run through the local authority or housing association.

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