ASB Wardens return to Salisbury

Salisbury City Council is pleased to announce the return of anti-social behaviour (ASB) wardens to the city, helping to enhance community safety in high-footfall areas.

The initiative, which launched on Tuesday 24 June, sees two uniformed wardens, supplied by AEC Protection, on foot patrol to monitor hotspots, deter anti-social behaviour, report incidents, and offer reassurance to the public. This initiative is funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office and will run until end of March 2026.

Cllr Sam Charleston, Leader of Salisbury City Council, says: “We’re pleased to welcome back ASB wardens to our city. While this year they’re provided by a new partner organisation, their important role remains the same: to help reduce anti-social behaviour and keep our city centre safe, welcoming and enjoyable for all residents and visitors.”

Philip Wilkinson, Wiltshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, adds: “I am acutely aware of the issues highlighted to me by our residents which either make them feel uncomfortable or put them off going to Salisbury city centre, which is why tackling anti-social behaviour (ASB) and using the ASB hotspot funding my office has obtained from central government effectively, takes a high priority in my police and crime plan.

“The anti-social behaviour wardens provide a visible and reassuring presence for our residents, as they can diffuse and resolve the problems surrounding the use of e-bikes and e-scooters, shoplifting and mobile phone and bag theft, before they escalate.

“Through working with our partners, we will build on the vital work of the ASB wardens and police officers. It’s not just about enforcement — we are committed to tackling the root causes of ASB and delivering real solutions, such as detached youth work and out-of-court resolutions.”

Aidan Cooper, Managing Director & Head of Training at AEC Protection, says: “AEC Protection are proud to support Salisbury City Council in delivering these focused ASB patrols. This isn’t just about presence, it’s about early intervention, public reassurance, and knowing how to respond when someone’s in difficulty.

“Our officers are all Level 3 FREC (First Response Emergency Care) qualified, trained in WAVE (Welfare and Vulnerability Engagement), and skilled in managing conflict and safeguarding concerns. They’re equipped to assess situations quickly, make calm, informed decisions, and offer meaningful help when it’s most needed.

“It’s a privilege to help strengthen community safety and support Salisbury’s efforts to create a more confident and welcoming city centre for everyone.”

The wardens will be connected via the CityWatch radio system, which enables real-time communication between city businesses, CCTV operators, and the police control room, strengthening partnership working to help identify and prevent crime in the city centre.

Members of the public can report ASB to Wiltshire Council via email at asb@wiltshire.gov.uk or the police on 101 or online at www.wiltshire.police.uk.

This comes after the success of the previous initiative which ran from 1 July 2024 to 31 March 2025 and resulted in a reduction in anti-social behaviour and enhanced safety in the city centre. The two ASB wardens, provided at that time by Venture Security, recorded a total of 554 incidents spanning issues such as drunkenness, public disorder, and theft.

The wardens’ efforts are supported by the city’s CCTV network, which plays a key role in monitoring activity, gathering evidence, and enabling swift responses to emerging issues.

Dan Collins, Operations Manager at Salisbury BID, says: “We’re very pleased to welcome AEC Protection to Salisbury as our dedicated ASB officers. They’ve quickly and seamlessly integrated into the city’s existing partnership network, working proactively alongside our BID Security Ranger, local businesses, and wider stakeholders.

Their presence is already making a positive difference on the ground, providing reassurance and adding vital support in tackling anti-social behaviour. We’re confident this partnership will have a lasting impact on the safety and vibrancy of our city centre.”

Arnold Catterall, Centre Manager at the Old George Mall, says: “We’re pleased to welcome the return of the ASB wardens – an important part of maintaining a welcoming, vibrant environment across our historic city. Their presence supports Salisbury’s continued success as a safe, thriving city for everyone.”

Salisbury City Council looks forward to working with AEC Protection to help make Salisbury safer for everyone.