Accreditation Scheme
The Police Reform Act 2002 enables the Chief Officer of any Police area to establish and maintain a Community Safety Accreditation Scheme. Any organisation that provides community safety and security functions may enter into an arrangement with the Chief Constable for the accreditation of its employees, provided agreed standards and policy requirements are satisfied.
Accreditation will enable employees to utilise limited but targeted powers to become more effective in their role of providing public reassurance, and in the prevention of crime, disorder and anti-social behaviour. Other benefits of the Scheme include better communication and a formalisation of relationships within the “extended Police family”, and legislative protection for accredited individuals. The Scheme also reassures members of the public that accredited persons have reached approved standards in terms of vetting and training.
Durham Constabulary launched its Community Safety Accreditation Scheme in January 2005. In Co.Durham and Darlington, 46 wardens from the following local authorities have been accredited - Darlington Borough Council, Durham City Council, District of Easington, Sedgefield Borough Council and Wear Valley District Council.
