Good News – Community Warden Service in Bearsted

Kent County Council (KCC) employs a team of Community Wardens who undertake valuable work particularly for the elderly and more vulnerable members of the community. They also liaise with the Police on community matters and provide a valuable focus for issues as they arise. As County Council employees, they have a direct link with Social Services to help identify those in need.

In 2024, KCC undertook a review of the service in the light of reduced budgets. Bearsted Parish Council was shocked to be informed that this Parish no longer qualified for a Community Warden – the decision taken being final and without negotiation or meaningful discussion.

Given the importance of the role of the Community Warden to many residents, Bearsted Parish Council has resolved to buy in the service from KCC, initially on 3 days per week, to be reviewed after 12 months. Future funding will be considered later this year. We believe it is important to maintain the excellent work that our Warden, Sally Williams, has undertaken over the last few years.

So we are very excited to welcome Sally back to Bearsted from the 1st of April. Her usual working days will be Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.