Neighbourhood Enforcement Officer

As a Neighbourhood Enforcement Officer, you will play a vital role in protecting and improving the local environment across the borough. You will be responsible for patrolling designated areas and known hotspot locations, working both independently and as part of a team. Patrols will be carried out on foot and through the use of vehicles or pedal cycles to ensure a visible and effective enforcement presence.

You will undertake proactive inspections of businesses and public spaces, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and contributing to planned operations led by the Neighbourhood Delivery Management Team.

A key aspect of the role is investigating reports of environmental crime and anti-social behaviour involving both individuals and businesses. This includes issues such as illegal dumping, littering, dog fouling, begging, and street drinking. You will take appropriate action in line with legislation, including conducting investigations, gathering evidence, seizing or removing items where necessary, and carrying out enforcement action.

As a uniformed officer, you will operate in accordance with the standards set by relevant accreditation bodies, using formal legal powers to enforce and intervene where required.

You will also provide support to the community by responding to members of the public in distress, identifying and reporting suspicious or criminal behaviour, and addressing issues that impact quality of life. This includes identifying vulnerable or insecure properties, taking steps to make them safe, and liaising with appropriate agencies. You will also support investigations carried out by internal teams and external partners.

The role requires the service of legal notices to individuals and businesses under a range of legislation, including the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005, the Anti-Social Behaviour Act, the Environmental Protection Act 1990, and the Refuse Disposal (Amenities) Act 1978, as well as any other relevant enforcement powers.

You will be responsible for accurately collecting and managing intelligence, maintaining records, and preparing reports and witness statements within required timescales. All evidence must be handled in accordance with PACE, and you may be required to attend court to present evidence in support of legal proceedings.

In addition, you will undertake other duties appropriate to the level and nature of the role, supporting the wider objectives of the service.

Please note this role does not attract sponsorship.

About you

You are an experienced and proactive individual with a background in enforcement, environmental crime, anti-social behaviour, or a similar field. You have experience working with the general public and are confident engaging with a wide range of people in a professional and respectful manner.

You are able to deal assertively, politely, and tactfully with individuals, including those who may be confrontational, and can provide clear advice within established guidelines. You have strong organisational skills and can effectively prioritise and manage competing demands, producing clear, accurate reports and correspondence.

You are capable of working independently with minimal supervision, using your initiative to resolve issues and develop practical solutions, while consistently working within established procedures. You are confident using computerised systems to input and retrieve data and are proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel.

You have the ability to carry out investigations, establish facts, gather evidence, and take appropriate action in line with relevant procedures and enforcement powers. You demonstrate a good understanding of environmental protection and anti-social behaviour legislation, along with knowledge of investigation processes, evidence handling, data protection, and health and safety practices. You may also have some awareness of RIPA 2000 and the Litter Code of Practice.

You understand the importance of equality and diversity and recognise the impact discrimination can have on individuals and service delivery, ensuring fairness and inclusivity in your approach.

You are willing to undertake relevant training and are able to obtain Enforcement Accreditation within the required timeframe. You hold a valid driving licence, are physically able to walk and stand for extended periods, and are flexible to work a rota pattern, including weekends.