ISSUE 28 | WINTER EDITION 2019

CENTRE PAGES TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS Police Cadets (VPC) Strategy. CiP forms an differences between England and the US. integral part of the policing family and I believe that the Strategy provides a clear statement of intent to The event also welcomed Kimihiro Hino from the further grow and develop this very important area of University of Tokyo who spoke to the delegates policing. about a new approach to protect children from Crime in Japan. Dr Matthew Callender, from As we move into 2020, I’d like to take this the IPSCJ shared the research that had been opportunity to reflect on some of the achievements undertaken on volunteering in policing and public of 2019 including: safety between the UK and Japan.

WELCOME • The introduction of the aforementioned national Other speakers at the conference included Dr Iain strategies Britton and Carol Borland-Jones from the IPSCJ and the MC’s for the event were Dr Laura Knight • The completion and evaluation of the 17 Police and Clare Leon. CHIEF Transformational Fund Pilots

LISA WINWARD • The continued work of the National Working NORTH YORKSHIRE Groups for SC, PSV and ESP POLICE & NPCC LEAD • The continued work of the 9 Chief Officer Regional Leads FOR CITIZENS IN • Welcoming a number of newly appointed POLICING Regional Coordinators into post

Looking forward into 2020, exciting development will CITIZENS IN POLICING include: NATIONAL STRATEGY • The introduction of a new National VPC Strategy with accompanying framework and National 2019 -2023 Safeguarding policy I am delighted to share with you the new National Strategy for Citizens in Policing (CiP), 2019 - 2023. • Further news on the next stages in the The document, presented in a new plan on a page development and use of the Valuing Volunteer format aims to provide a clear strategic direction Framework CUMBRIA HOSTS for the service in relation to further developing the Citizens in Policing agenda. It details key areas of • A national programme of events, activities and LEADERSHIP TRAINING focus that we will be collectively working on across resource to further support the development of INTERNATIONAL the Forces over the next 5 years. The Strategy the CiP agenda FOR VOLUNTEER POLICE has been developed and informed by feedback CONFERENCE ON from national surveys and benchmarking work I would just like say a massive thank you and CADET LEADERS that captured the views, experiences and best highlight that the progress that has been made practice of both Forces and Volunteers. It aims to could not have been done without the continued VOLUNTEERING IN clearly set out our mission and vision for Citizens effort, support and active engagement of our in Policing and the deliverables and work that Volunteers and CiP colleagues. PUBLIC SAFETY we will need to undertake. It defines outcomes; Practitioners from the Citizens in Policing the tools that we use will measure our successes Thank you again and I wish you all the best for the and the infrastructure that supports this agenda. year ahead. Programme in the UK, and colleagues from across This overarching Strategy is also underpinned by the world came together recently for a Volunteering a number of more detailed national strategies for Lisa Winward Conference hosted by the Institute of Public Safety the (SC), Police Support Chief Constable, North Yorkshire Police& NPCC Crime and Justice (IPSCJ). Volunteers (PSV), and Employer Supported Policing Citizens in Policing Lead (ESP), soon to be accompanied by the Volunteer The event was opened with keynote speaker, Dr. Ross Wolf, Interim Assistant Provost of the University of Central Florida who is also a Reserve Chief Deputy in the Orange County (Florida) Volunteering Matters has been produced with support from Graham Front Page: GMP Police Support Museum Volunteers Cumbria and Lancashire Forces came together Holmes,Volunteers, Force Practitioners and Communications Teams. Sheriff’s Office as well as President of the Volunteer If you would like to be placed on the e-subscription list Please send you articles to the Editor: Law Enforcement Officer Alliance (VLEOA). Ross recently to receive leadership training delivered please email: [email protected] [email protected] gave a fascinating insight to US Policing, as well by the National VPC Team. as the Reserves and Auxiliary Police sharing the

2 VOLUNTEERING MATTERS Issue 28 Issue 28 VOLUNTEERING MATTERS 3 We were treated to live performances and several OUR LANCASHIRE groups had prepared short films to illustrate what NORFOLK SAFER their groups do. We heard from group attendees what a positive difference the social interactions COMMUNITY had made, we learnt of new skills acquired and new friendships made. As AWARDS HUMBERSIDE CADETS GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

On OUR Lancashire Day 2019 community groups from across the county joined us at the On Saturday the 30th of November Tower Ballroom in Blackpool to celebrate the There were performances and video presentations Humberside Police Cadets braved the cold Our Lancashire Website – the one stop shop for from several groups from across the county, have weather in Tunstall to help the Plant a Tree community groups and events. Social action groups a look at the website and social media channels Today Foundation. They worked together generously gave their time to tell their story, to for footage from the event www.ourlancashire.org. alongside young people from the local Early perform and provide a memorable afternoon to over uk This is the website for people to register their Intervention Team to plant over 1,700 whips 400 people. We were joined by representatives groups, find people with similar interests or groups to help create One “Hull” of a Forest. The from partner organisations to tell the story of Our to network and for community based projects to foundation aims to work with young people all Lancashire, how it came about and our plans for the be able to promote their events for free. If you Norfolk Constabulary held its ‘Noscas’ (Norfolk over the Hull area which is where our Cadets future. Guests were welcomed by the harmonious wish to get in contact our email is ourlancashire@ Safer Community Awards) evening recently with and Early Intervention Team stepped in to lend trio The Bluebirds and Dave Guest, BBC presenter lancashire.pnn.police.uk various members of the Norfolk Police family being a hand! introduced the afternoon of entertainment. presented with awards for work done during the year. The last presentation of the evening was a As Cadets they take great pride in their local Clive Grunshaw Police and Crime Commissioner well-kept secret. Jeeves, one of the horses was area and understand the importance of giving for Lancashire introduced the event and explained being retired, and the Chief wanted to present him back to the communities around them. They the impact the Social Action Network had on with an award as he had been the first horse to join really enjoyed the event and the fact they were communities and how reducing loneliness by being the team at its conception. able to help not just the Foundation but also involved with community groups can increase health young people for generations to come who outcomes and community resilience. The evening progressed and the final presentation will benefit from having a Hull Forest on their was to be a Chiefs’ award. The emergency exit doorstep once the trees have grown. Since the Ian Sewart, Our Lancashire Programme Manager doors opened and in came a guard of honour from Plant a Tree Today Foundation started they introduced the growing team who are working the Unit followed by Jeeves ridden by Special have planted over 3 million trees worldwide throughout Lancashire to support groups and Ian Inspector Tallent. Jeeves handled it like a pro; not to help local communities and combat climate explained how “Everyone can make a difference. moving a muscle even when the audience erupted change so it is great for our Cadets to be part We are promoting and connecting groups across the into applause. Special Inspector Tallent told us of this Journey. county” that Jeeves will remain in the family spending his retirement grazing in the field.

4 VOLUNTEERING MATTERS Issue 28 Issue 28 VOLUNTEERING MATTERS 5 Several Forces took the opportunity to raise CELEBRATING awareness of the Citizens in Policing Programme to showcase how they engage and involve volunteers INTERNATIONAL as part of the policing family. VOLUNTEER DAY GMP has 350 Special , 140 Police Support Volunteers plus Volunteer Police Cadet Leaders and Cadets making a huge difference to the communities of Greater .

GMP is also part of the national Employer Supported Policing Scheme, so members of Police Staff who volunteer as Special Constables and Police Support Volunteers can benefit from additional paid time off to undertake their volunteering duties and/or training – and this benefit was promoted internally to staff on the Day.

There was a Citizens in Policing stand at the Force The volunteers come from a variety of different Headquarters Christmas Fair, where Police Support NEW RURAL CRIME backgrounds including Gamekeepers, Estate Volunteers and a had the Managers and Farmers and are coming far and opportunity to chat to GMP staff about volunteering VOLUNTEERS IN wide from the border with Cumbria down to the opportunities within policing. Durham. International Volunteer Day took place on 5 NORTHUMBRIA There was lots of social media activity throughout The Volunteers already have a good understanding December and is a chance for individual volunteers, the day, including a thank you from the Police A fresh-faced group of volunteers have joined the of local crime and wildlife concerns in their areas communities and organisations to promote their Federation for England and Wales. Force in a bid to crackdown on rural crime across which can be passed to the right agency for the best contributions. Northumberland. response.

A total of 20 Rural Crime Volunteers officially joined One of the volunteers said: “It’s about doing my Northumbria Police recently and will work closely part for the community. We can be the eyes and the with officers and other partner agencies to help ears out in the public to help officers and do our bit. prevent and disrupt local and cross-border criminal Whether it is looking out for suspicious activity and activity. Each volunteer will support officers with vehicles or sharing intelligence quickly amongst local and national police operations including officers and other volunteers – it can all pay off.” Operation Checkpoint. While a Rural Crime Volunteer does not have Superintendent Helen Anderson, from Northumbria powers to arrest they will have access to police Police, said: “We’re delighted to welcome these equipment and information, for example having volunteers into our policing family. Each volunteer access to radio channels to share intelligence during already has contacts within their own rural operations. communities which will help with getting messages out and intelligence in. They will also help us to Superintendent Anderson added: “We recognise promote rural crime prevention messages for hard the contribution of our official Police Volunteers and to reach audiences.” I want to wish them luck and once again offer my gratitude for all they do.” Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness said: “It’s amazing to see so much dedication from these volunteers. They continue to support officers and staff in their work to tackle rural crime and they do it all on their own time and on occasion risking their own personal safety. It’s an honour to be able to present them with their badges and welcome them to Northumbria Police as official Rural Crime Volunteers. I wish them all the luck for their future operations and have no doubt they will continue to be an essential asset to the Force.”

6 VOLUNTEERING MATTERS Issue 28 Issue 28 VOLUNTEERING MATTERS 7 circumstances, and how important it is for Police and Judge’s Commendations. Chaplains to establish great working relationships WEST YORKSHIRE with senior officers for their respective policing Luke Coates, who is a Volunteer Police Cadet in areas. VOLUNTEER the Keighley Unit and in his second year, received a District Commanders Commendation. On the Dick Johnson, West Mercia Police Lead Chaplain, POLICE CADET 2nd May 2019 a PCSO was on duty in Market shared insights and practical information to help to Square, Shipley when she was informed that a equip chaplains for dealing with times of change and RECEIVES DISTRICT lady had collapsed. Upon arrival Luke was there, uncertainty. had phoned for an ambulance and had made the COMMANDERS lady comfortable. The situation quickly changed The day finished with a presentation from Citizens and the casualty became unresponsive, Luke in Policing Manager, Sian Battle-Welch who paid COMMENDATION confidently told well-meaning bystanders what the tribute to the Police Chaplaincy Service, recognising ambulance control had told him and further helped the hours, commitment and support they provide the PCSO by running to the local library to get the and the value they add to Police Forces across the defibrillator. When the ambulance arrived, Luke UK. provided a handover to them so that the casualty could be looked after properly. He then returned the Lead Chaplain for Warwickshire Police, Matthew WARWICKSHIRE defibrillator to its place despite knowing he would Hopley, said: “This year’s conference was a fantastic miss his next bus home! POLICE HOSTS opportunity to update and inspire chaplaincy teams across the region and it was an honour to welcome His citation reads: ‘For your quick thinking and calm REGIONAL POLICE everyone to Leek Wootton. manner in assisting an elderly woman who had collapsed. You followed instructions and helped the “I’d like to take this opportunity to say a massive CHAPLAINCY attending PCSO manage the situation effectively. thank you to all those who attended and were You conducted yourself in a manner that exceeded involved in making this year’s event so worthwhile. CONFERENCE your age. You are a credit to yourself and your On Tuesday 29th October 2019 Warwickshire Police “Police Chaplains are there to support you in your Cadet Unit.’ time of need and are a really good provision for Headquarters hosted the West Midlands Regional PC Grace Detoeuf, Cadet Unit Leader for Keighley venting your feelings and problems. By bringing Police Chaplaincy Conference 2019. said, “Luke is a true example of what a Police Cadet together Chaplains from across the region, we are is; he put other people’s needs before his own and I Taking place every two years, the conference all able to share ideas on how to best serve and am so glad that he has been recognised for this act saw the Lead Chaplains for Warwickshire Police support our police families alike.” and West Mercia Police host chaplains from of selflessness.” Chaplaincy has been part of welfare support in the neighbouring Forces West Midlands Police and In closing the ceremony Chief Constable John police for many years. Chaplains are motivated Staffordshire Police. Robins paid tribute to the winners and said the by their faith to offer care and support for anyone event had showed that Bradford was a great The day started with a welcome from Deputy Chief who seeks it, regardless of their beliefs or not, in example of a ‘positive and engaging city’. Constable for Warwickshire Police, Richard Moore any aspect of their work or personal lives, be it who also provided an update around the national concerning ethical, spiritual, emotional or other Chief Superintendent Oz Khan, said: “I am very policing picture. matters. They befriend, act as a sounding board and proud of my officers and staff at Bradford District a confidant to anyone who would like to talk to them, for the work they do to keep people safe every day The event also celebrated the success of John and their conversations are held in confidence. Butcher, Lead Chaplain for West Midlands Police, and I was delighted to celebrate some fantastic who was recently awarded with a British Empire examples of work at this special event. It was also Medal for his work in Police Chaplaincy. pleasing to be able to reward the work of partners and members of the public, whose amazing efforts During the conference a series of talks were given, have supported the work of our officers and staff in including one from Chief Superintendent Kenny Bell The Bradford District Annual Awards Ceremony Bradford.” from West Midlands Police who shared his thoughts 2019 was opened by District Commander Chief around ‘preparing for the unthinkable’. Superintendent Oz Khan and attended by the Senior Leadership Team for Bradford District Police and Lead Chaplain for Warwickshire Police, Matthew the Chief Constable of West Yorkshire Police, John Hopley interviewed Supt Bell over the tragic death Robins. of PCSO Holly Burke and the impact her death had on the wider police family. This session highlighted More than 30 Awards were presented at the the role of the chaplaincy service in such tragic event and comprised of District Commander’s Commendations, Royal Humane Society awards

8 VOLUNTEERING MATTERS Issue 28 Issue 28 VOLUNTEERING MATTERS 9 CELEBRATING THE Audrey Niddrie is a Special Constable in Karen is a Police Support TWELVE DAYS OF Nottinghamshire and Volunteer with Lincolnshire says “I have learned a Police’s Operation Revive CHRISTMAS WITH range of skills including team, which provides support to basic interviewing and vulnerable and elderly members OUR CITIZENS IN case building. It has also of the community who have POLICING made me more resilient been identified as being victims, and able to remain calm in challenging situations. and potential victims, of crime. Kamaal Khaliq from Derbyshire Police Being a Special has increased my self-confidence Karen visits people who have either been scammed says “The best thing I gained as a Cadet and my ability to manage my own time, which has or have been victims of an attempted scam and was discipline; it really helped me change been essential when balancing a full-time role as a offer further help and advice. my behaviour for the better. When I Cadet Coordinator, volunteering as a Special and Amanda has been a started, my behaviour was unpredictable studying for my Master’s degree.” and challenging for the Leaders, and I (Credit: https://www.citizensinpolicing.net ) for two years and helps didn’t regularly attend. I have been able to do GMP’s Scambusters with volunteer interviews, things I never thought I would do, taking part in are a team of Police inductions and also the Iron Team Challenge with Cadets from Forces Support Volunteers undertakes administrative across the UK. I have now been promoted to Cadet who give peer-to-peer tasks within the Specials Leader.” support to victims Welfare Hub, supporting officers who are on a leave (Credit: https://www.citizensinpolicing.net) of fraud as well as of absence. She says “I am passionate about the Dennis volunteers with the attending community development of the Forces’ Citizens in Policing GMP’s Scambusters Team. events to promote Programme and can actively contribute to this He says “I contact people fraud prevention through my volunteer role” who have reported incidents to Action Fraud and fallen The Castle Fields Stephen volunteers once a victim to ‘scammers’, and Streetwatch week for South Yorkshire Police, am on hand to offer them Group, based in cleaning the interiors of a number advice and support. I Northamptonshire of Police vehicles, as well as also attend events in the Police, are on checking the lights, oil and washer community, where I give talks and presentations on patrol twice levels and undertaking tyre all aspects of Fraud, and provide Fraud Prevention a week in condition checks. Stephen also ensures that the Literature.” Dennis also supports the Force at Wellingborough to vehicles are fully stocked with all the equipment that recruitment events too. tackle fly tipping, is required. “The whole team in Sheffield are brilliant car theft, drug to volunteer with. It’s very rewarding, motivating Ola has been a Special and refreshing; it is adding a nice bit of variety and Kevin became a Police Support Volunteer in May dealing, burglary and anti-social behaviour. They Constable for over seven also lead monthly litter picks which take more than dimension to my week. The team make the time years and says “I have 2017 and joined the team in the Public Protection spent there worthwhile.” Unit in South Cumbria with a specific responsibility 100 bags of rubbish off the streets. never looked back and truly around the installation, review and removal of Ben has been a Special enjoy the experience of this Rita joined as a Police TecSOS devices. Constable since May 2015; voluntary role. I thrive on Support Volunteer in 2010 he now uses his specialist heading out into something and says the best bit Kevin’s role is to support detectives to improve cyber skills and knowledge that’s totally unpredictable about volunteering is ‘The community contact, confidence, satisfaction levels to help tackle digital crime and I can honestly say that no two shifts are wonderful camaraderie we and to reduce risk to victims of Domestic Abuse with and investigations. Ben has ever the same and this really has given me great have at Cheadle Heath his main role being the installation and removal of supported the investigation of experience to deal with any situation.” Integrated Neighbourhood the TecSOS that are a vital instrument in keeping cyber crimes, has drafted legal Policing Team.’ Rita vulnerable victims of domestic violence safe. documents, and assisted with house searches. undertakes administrative He has also developed an ‘add-on’ for Firefox tasks including taking minutes at community explorer that has assisted investigators when they meetings. She also goes out with officers on the are conducting open source research on Facebook ‘Safer Plate Initiative.’ She has also spoken to profiles, saving time and speeding up investigations. victims of crime and helped circulated and complete surveys. “The role is ever-changing; as new tasks come up, I tackle them.”

10 VOLUNTEERING MATTERS Issue 28 Issue 28 VOLUNTEERING MATTERS 11 It was time to get stuck into the first activity of the evening – performing vehicle checks using the radios. The Cadets paired up and took it in turns to go out to the car park, accompanied by a Leader. Each Cadet had to perform at least one vehicle check, testing their radio skills as well as their Phonetic Alphabet knowledge.

It’s really valuable how the Cadets Group encompasses not only police-specific skills, but life skills too – the Phonetic Alphabet will come in handy no matter what career path they choose to take.

Back inside, I got chatting to a few of the Cadets and ended up talking to the oldest member and the newest member at the same time: Nikki, who had been a Cadet for three years, and Erin, who had AN EVENING WITH joined just one week ago. They’re both considering a career in the Police, and Nikki is hoping to MARTLESHAM continue with Cadets once she turns 18 by re-joining CADETS as a Volunteer Cadet Leader. Selena and Lauren rounded up those not doing BY HOLLIE GRISS vehicle checks into a circle and got them to throw a gym ball to each other, with the ball receiver having Having never been to a Cadets Group before – the to spell their name in the phonetic alphabet. closest I’ve come is probably Guides – I wasn’t too sure what to expect when I walked into the Soon it was my turn to head out into the car park Martlesham unit of the Volunteer Police Cadets with the final pair of Cadets. The Leader did a great recently. job of going through and explaining what we needed to say step-by-step. Next up it was time for the Chris and Janet were nominated for the award by The group, for 13 to 18-year-olds, was very different group to try their hand at person checks. LIFEWISE Police Support Volunteer Project Officer Lisa Porter, to my experiences of youth groups. On arrival, all in recognition of their dedication to the Crucial Crew Cadets had to hand in their phones. It was like they The patience of the Leaders and the encouragement VOLUNTEERS SCOOP Programme. Both volunteer four days every week stepped out of regular teenager mode and into they gave to the Cadets was inspiring to see, as during term time, contributing over 50 hours per police mode, putting aside all the distractions of their was the satisfaction of the Cadets when they got TOP AWARD week each of their own time. They participate in normal life for the next two hours. something right. role-play as part of the knife crime and hate crime Two volunteers based within South Yorkshire Police scenario delivered by PCSOs and their involvement Community Safety Department have been awarded The Senior Cadet, Selena, arrived and confidently “Being a Cadet Leader is very rewarding,” said one ensures that the hard-hitting messages are a Community Achievement Award by Voluntary began rounding up all the other Cadets to begin the of the Leaders. “It is fantastic to see young people delivered in a realistic and memorable way. session, alongside Deputy Senior Cadet Lauren. getting opportunities which can lead them onto a Action Rotherham in recognition of their hard work career with the Constabulary. Many of our Cadets as part of the Crucial Crew Programme at the Lisa Porter said “We nominated our volunteers for There are six Volunteer Cadet Leaders in total, but go on to become Special Constables, Regular Lifewise Centre. this award as they really do make a difference. on that night there were four present from a variety Officers and Police Staff.” The feedback we have had from schools since the The Lifewise Centre is South Yorkshire’s only of different roles within the police: Control Room introduction of this topic and the thought-provoking, interactive safety centre and is home to the Joint Operator, Response Police Officer, a Detective and sensitive way in which it is delivered has been Community Safety Department of South Yorkshire a Special Constable. fantastic. All of our volunteers do an amazing job, Police and South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue. but the fact that Chris & Janet volunteer four days a The Leaders began by giving the Cadets a brief Crucial Crew is an interactive, engaging, and fun week makes them very worthy of recognition. We training on how to use police radios. The key point personal safety educational provision managed by are delighted that they have received this award”. they drummed home was to not press the orange South Yorkshire Police, delivered in collaboration button, as this goes through to the control room as with South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue and South Voluntary Action Rotherham’s Community an emergency call. This felt like another reminder Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership. All South Achievement Awards are held annually to celebrate that Cadets is more than just a youth group – Yorkshire Year 6 pupils are invited to attend Crucial the work of individuals and projects in the voluntary they’re using real police equipment with no room for Crew, where they take part in eight different and community sector that have made a significant messing around. scenarios to learn how to keep themselves safe, difference to the communities of Rotherham. and the consequences of committing crime.

12 VOLUNTEERING MATTERS Issue 28 Issue 28 VOLUNTEERING MATTERS 13 This year the band was privileged to play for a investigation and soon she was number of international dignitaries. As well as producing draft and template meeting some of the dignitaries, the band also had documents for officers to use on the opportunity to meet some local people after visits. they had performed a concert for them, as well as members of the public from all across the United Claire formed part of the debrief Kingdom and around the world. where discussion took place with officers, partner agencies and The Musical Director, Alan Jazwinski, (a retired other departments to ensure all Detective Constable) was honoured this year the relevant information was in when he was presented with a special Medal of place to progress the operation. Friendship in recognition of the service which the band has given to the 3rd Line Regiment, and the Claire willingly made herself band has been approached to play in 2020 at other available to sit in on the training engagements further afield in Belgium. for front office staff. More impressively was the fact that this training content used the WEST YORKSHIRE briefing document Claire had produced, which helped her POLICE BAND VISIT make the connections with POLICE SUPPORT the front office role and how it fitted in with the BELGIUM organisation. Claire would chase up enquiries to VOLUNTEER FERRERS get the information from vehicles seizures from the “I can’t believe how much it’s rained”. This was a Operation as well to ensure the information was comment made by one of the Police Volunteers AWARDS WINNER added onto systems, to develop the intelligence who made up the West Yorkshire Police Band picture. Claire acquired an in-depth knowledge in during a recent trip to Ypres in Belgium, but it could 2019 terms of understanding modern slavery, ensuring easily have been heard from the mouths of those modern slavery referrals were being correctly Claire Hopkins was the Police Support Volunteer who served in Belgium and France during World completed and even helped an officer complete a Winner at the Home Office hosted Lord Ferrers War 1. The Band led a series of parades and national referral mechanism process guiding them Awards held in October 2019 at Lancaster House in services which took place in and around Ypres on with forms and information needed. London. We learn more about why she is a worthy Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day. Even though this year was one of the wettest the winner. band has experienced, their spirits remained high as Claire‘s work resulted in a comprehensive briefing pack being available for all colleagues to use they focused on the privilege of playing for all those Broadbury Road Police Station had been developing that can be adapted for any work place. Claire’s who gave their lives for us, and this month they look an extensive understanding of modern slavery, energy and enthusiasm has driven a whole team forward to a busy diary entertaining the people of starting as a neighbourhood enquiry it evolved to momentum, supporting operational visits, ensuring West Yorkshire. a full operation investigating hand car washes and behind the scenes all the information gathered by associated business, exploiting illegal immigrants Photo Credit: Charlotte Graham, Professional officers is recorded and that officers action their through a network of hand car washes operating Photographer, who accompanied the band on this tasks from Claire to build a picture. across Bristol and South Gloucestershire. The year’s trip. lead officers had developed a significant amount of Claire’s support on this Operation has allowed information resulting in a complex investigation. officers back to their core work more quickly as they are not tied up with administrative tasks and Claire initially joined Avon and Somerset secondly it has alleviated some of the stress from Constabulary as a Police Support Volunteer to officers with having Claire on hand to support them. support the Neighbourhood Teams. Part of her initial role was assisting with the accumulation of Claire is a key component of the team, her information and having gained such a wealth of The band has been the guest of the Local Chief of knowledge and enthusiasm stands out from the knowledge, her role evolved significantly, supporting Police, Alain Matton, for over 10 years after links norm, she has not sat as a back seat passenger the officers leading on the modern slavery work. were made by a previous band manager, retired PC and she joins each Operation - often surprising many who think volunteers are just kept behind the Keith Williams. Keith had conducted research into Claire was initially involved in the pulling together scenes. Claire’s organisational skills has helped Police Officers who had served in the West Riding of the vast amount of information obtained for this produce the relevant information, which is part of the area and also served in the First World War, and this investigation. However Claire’s enthusiasm and reason the team have had success in this area of began a friendship with Belgian colleagues which close relationship with the officers whilst undertaking business. . continues to this day. this task meant she was exposed to the ongoing

14 VOLUNTEERING MATTERS Issue 28 Issue 28 VOLUNTEERING MATTERS 15 event was also attended by Lord Lieutenant Warren GREATER Smith, High Sheriff Mark Adlestone and Chairman of MANCHESTER POLICE Gorton Monastery Paul Griffiths. Anne Addison who is a Police Support Volunteer in STARS AWARDS 2019 the vetting department was a winner in the “Service” Category.

The Winner in the Sir John Zochonis Award was SOUTH Volunteer Police Cadet Jodie Nickerson. Also recognised for Leadership were the YORKSHIRE CADET Voluntary Police Cadet Team Leaders and & RECOGNISED AT Leigh Voluntary Police Cadets won the Team Award. FORCE AWARDS WIGAN & LEIGH VPC GROUP

Jamie Tang was the winner of the Volunteer Award at the South Yorkshire Police Force CERTIFICATE OF Awards. He joined South York- shire Police as a Junior Cadet On Friday 4 October GMP held the fourth annual SERVICE PRESENTED in September 2018, based in STARS Awards. Officers and staff from around the Doncaster. Jamie is 18 years Force were invited to a special evening to celebrate TO GMP POLICE of age and is currently a Volun- fantastic achievements. Held in the stunning Gorton teer Cadet Leader in Doncaster Monastery for the second year, the STARS Awards SUPPORT VOLUNTEER District. help to acknowledge the exceptional work that takes place on a daily basis across the Force. Everyone Emma Sharrock was presented personally with Jamie has attended every Wednesday evening who attended was nominated by their colleagues her Certificate of Service by Chief Constable Ian Cadet night since joining the programme. He is and peers, who recognised their excellent Hopkins QPM as she leaves her role as a Police an exceptional young man who has committed achievements. Support Volunteer to embark on her paid career. himself to the programme from the very begin- STOCKPORT VPC TEAM Emma has volunteered with the Force for four years ning, always making valuable contributions to LEADERS whilst studying. She graduated in Criminological the Cadet nights. and Forensic Psychology BSc at The University of with a First Class Degree with Honours, and In addition to attending the Wednesday eve- then achieved her Masters earlier this year. ning Cadet nights Jamie has also attended community events, taken part in test purchase Emma’s original role was helping in the Public operations and assisted all four Districts with Protection Investigation Unit at Police operations and parades. In total, since joining Station, and after 3 years in this role, wanting to the programme Jamie has attended 69 duties progress and develop further, she was offered consisting of 223 volunteering hours. a role in the Sexual Offender Management Unit. This role was a lot more hands on as involved Jamie is always smart and takes pride in The ceremony was opened by Chief Constable telephone contact with individuals to check on their promoting South Yorkshire Police in a positive Ian Hopkins QPM who commented: “The STARS welfare and then inform the officer in charge if any light. He is always professional and is a great are a great opportunity for us to recognise the conditions have been breached or if they presented ambassador for the Force and young people in significant achievements and amazing work that is as a concern during the call. She also continued general. done across the Force. It is a time to say thank you with transcribing interviews for the officers, as this from me, from GMP and from the people of Greater was a task she really enjoyed. Manchester for what you have done despite the challenges we face.” Also nominated and attending the event from Emma volunteered a total of 750 hours throughout the Citizens in Policing programme were the her time with Police which The Awards were presented by Coronation Street’s Scambusters and the Neighbourhood, Confidence averages 16 hours per month which is an amazing Cherylee Houston and Melissa Johns, both patrons and Equality Volunteer Teams as well as Special contribution to policing. of the Triple C Charity that encourage disabled Constables Megan Taylor, Derek Wynne, Andrew people to enjoy the arts, singing and acting. The Morrell, Kris Corbley and Jared Simpson BEM.

16 VOLUNTEERING MATTERS Issue 28 Issue 28 VOLUNTEERING MATTERS 17 such as attending court. Other winners included, health practitioners from the Sea Sanctuary and SOUTH WEST REGION a dedicated team in Gloucestershire policing the Special Constables. The project aims to introduce strategic road network, and a Devon and Cornwall a different approach to reducing the offending rate project that aims to reduce the offending rates of of individuals with mental ill-health by attending individuals who present with mental ill-health. incidents and calls for service where mental ill- health is suspected and providing intervention; developing positive coping strategies with identified individuals, reducing demand on front line blue light services. POLICE SUPPORT VOLUNTEER TEAM OF THE YEAR AWARD Avon and Somerset Police’s Volunteer Driver Service Team was awarded for its professionalism, flexibility and ‘can do’ attitude. The Volunteer Driver Service launched in Patchway in December 2017, helping to transport officers to important tasks such as attending court. In the first year of operation, custody was the biggest user of the service which Andy Marsh, Chief Constable for Avon and has resulted in the saving of 927 hours of police Avon and Somerset Police Chief Constable Andy Somerset Police, commented: officer and PCSO time, an equivalent cost saving of Marsh SPECIAL CONSTABLE OF THE £11,310. A further £3,906 has been saved on direct “It was a pleasure to welcome everyone to my home costs including car parking. In addition to saving

Force and an honour to host this year’s South West YEAR AWARD money, the scheme has helped reduce pressures SPECIAL CONSTABULARY Sergeant Andrew Blocksage (Devon and Cornwall Region Special Constabulary and Police Volunteer associated with travel like dealing with traffic, finding Police) was awarded for showing outstanding AND POLICE SUPPORT Awards Ceremony. All of our volunteers are parking and leaving sufficient time. integral to delivering outstanding policing. We are professionalism and selflessness, responding to VOLUNTEER AWARDS 2019 incidents without hesitation in one of the busiest immensely grateful for their dedication, skills and SPECIAL CONSTABULARY Special Constables, Cadet Leaders and Volunteer enthusiasm of our volunteers and these awards are areas in the Force. On one particular occasion, Drivers were amongst the dedicated Police an opportunity for us to pay thanks for the difference Andrew finished his day job in London and drove TEAM OF THE YEAR ARTHUR Volunteers commended at the South West Region made by their actions.” to Cornwall to help colleagues with an incident demonstrating his dedication to his role. ELLIS MEMORIAL Special Constabulary and Police Volunteer Awards Gloucestershire Police’s Operation Indemnis Team Sue Mountstevens, Police and Crime Commissioner on Sunday 13 October 2019. was awarded for their proactive approach to policing for Avon and Somerset Police, added: This year hosted by Avon and Somerset Police at the strategic road network. In the first six months Somerset County Cricket ground in Taunton, the “Our volunteers play a significant role in supporting since its introduction on 1 November 2018, the awards recognise the time, effort and invaluable the police and, most importantly, keeping local Team committed 1,510 hours, gave educational contributions given by those who volunteer in people in the south west safe. It is such a privilege warnings to 301 drivers, found three individuals policing across the entire South West region. The to work alongside so many people who so selflessly positive for alcohol and four positive for drugs, event was compered by former footballer and Vice- give up their time to create a safer place for us seized 47 vehicles, reported 35 traffic offences and President of Show Racism The Red Card; Leroy all to live. Our wonderful volunteers are a shining assisted 41 breakdowns. Rosenior MBE, and attended by Police Volunteers, example of the positive impact local people can Police staff and senior officials from all South West have on their community.” Constabularies. POLICE SUPPORT VOLUNTEER Winners were announced across five categories: Police Support Volunteer of the Year, Special OF THE YEAR AWARD Constable of the Year, Innovation in Policing, John Hancock (Wiltshire Police) was awarded Police Support Volunteer Team of the Year and for dedication to serving Wiltshire Police and his Special Constabulary Team of the Year Arthur Ellis community. Since retiring from his duties as a PC, Memorial. John has continued to show his commitment by opening a weekly police information point at his INNOVATION IN POLICING Amongst those awarded was the Volunteer local police station, visiting different locations in his

Driver Service for Avon and Somerset Police in town to provide guidance and advice, and providing AWARD Devon and Cornwall Police was awarded for its Blue Patchway. Transporting officers to important tasks invaluable support to anyone who needs it. Light Interface Project, which brings together mental

18 VOLUNTEERING MATTERS Issue 28 Issue 28 VOLUNTEERING MATTERS 19