Herefordshire’s successful village warden scheme to go on

A valued pilot village warden scheme, which helps older people feel safe and in touch with their community, will continue with the support of Herefordshire Council and Herefordshire Primary Care Trust.

The village warden scheme currently covers Kingsland, Weobley, Ewyas Harold, Wellington and two parishes in the south of Hereford city. The wardens, with the help of community volunteers, work to identify the needs of older people and match those with services that can help.

Jean Howard, of Herefordshire Primary Care Trust, said: "Sustainable funding is available and people who depend on this valuable local service need to know that the village warden scheme is to carry on in the pilot sites. Based on the success of the pilot scheme we are also looking at a programme of expansion into other areas of the county".

"The village wardens have become such a valuable and integral part of many communities", said Councillor Olwyn Barnett, cabinet member for social care for adults and health. "I want to pay tribute to their commitment, their local knowledge, and the fact that they care so deeply for the wellbeing of their neighbours. Many parts of Herefordshire are a better place to live as a result".