SPRING 2020 | ISSUE 38

SPECIALS & EMPLOYERS COVID-19 SUPPORT SEE CENTRE PAGES Policing lead, Chief local organisations inviting Lisa Winward, to pull together them to sign up to become an CHIEF CONSTABLE MESSAGE FROM guidance and resources, ESP partner. Spring Special Impact is working with partners and LISA WINWARD OF EDITOR: published at a very difficult time for stakeholders to assist We are working closely with NORTH YORKSHIRE us all. The Special Constabulary are WELCOMEand support Forces in the DutySheet, who have added vital as we continue to deal with the mobilisation of their Specials new features like, Social POLICE AND NPCC challenges that COVID-19 poses. I teams in a safe, considered Isolation and Social Distancing know that as volunteers in policing and meaningful way. In recent Module, so Forces can quickly LEAD FOR CITIZENS IN you are all doing everything you can weeks we have received a and easily identify, those to assist our communities at this unprecedented number of questions and as a available for deployment and POLICING time. I also want to mention the Employers of result put together documents, of course, offer support to our Special ; not only have our ESP to provide clarity over a range those in need. The system partners stepped up their support, but there of issues, informed by advice is also helping us to monitor are so many organisations that have offered to and guidance from the Home the number of hours served, to demonstration and report release their staff that are Special Constables As a police service, we Office, the College of Policing, on the enormous contribution to support policing which is amazing – if you greatly value our Special and others key stakeholders. that Special Constables are want to share good stories about your employer Constables for their dedication Topics of these documents providing to help combat please email [email protected] and commitment day in day have include, allowances, COVID-19. out, every week of the year. ESP, management advice I hope that you are all taking the precautions However, the step up to health and safety and of In such a dynamic and swiftly to protect yourself, your co-workers and your support at this critical time is course welfare. These will be changing environment, we families. I want to say a personal thank you overwhelming and I would like continuously refreshed as the are working hard at a national to you all. I am truly amazed - as always to personally thank each and Coronavirus situation evolves. level to respond as quickly - with your commitment and dedication to every one of you, as you offer policing, particularly at this time, and I am very We have also written to Chief as possible to the challenges your time to help protect the proud to have connections with the Special Constables recommending that presented, and I’m grateful NHS, and our communities, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank Constabulary. the capacity and capability of to all those involved for their when they need it the most. I all those involved in the Citizens in Policing the Special Constabulary be input. I think now more than have received so many reports agenda during what I think it’s fair to say are Tina Shelton included within their Command ever there are clear strengths over the past few weeks of some extraordinary times as we all take some North West Citizens in Policing Coordinator and Control Structures at this and benefits to an integrated Special Constables, up and unprecedented measures in the fight against & Editor of Special Impact and Volunteering critical time to ensure we utilise Special Constabulary, a valued down the country, going COVID-19. I recognise the surge of interest Matters their skills, knowledge and member of the policing family above and beyond, providing in volunteering at this time with many keen to experience. as we work collectively to crucial support to our Forces, support our communities. support which is much appreciated, but also whilst juggling challenges and In addition, ACC Andrew understand the need to do this in a safe and changes within their own jobs, Slattery has written to ESP measured way. I know that many Forces are family lives, as well as various employers asking them to taking a diverse and innovative approach to caring responsibilities and consider extending their harness the energy of our Volunteers and studies. current ESP provision to Special Constables at this time, adapting employees who are Special arrangements, embracing new ways, as we ASCO would like to thank every Special As the NPCC lead for the Constables, to provide Deputy Chief Constable work to maintain our commitment to keeping Constable in the UK for their valuable Special Constabulary, my team additional support to local Richard Debicki everyone safe. This has involved some contribution and the support to their and I have been working hard Forces, as and when required. North Wales Police & taking on alternative roles; others supporting communities during this national emergency behind the scenes alongside Forces have also written to NPCC Lead for the Special partnering organisations and others meeting the National Citizens in Constabulary virtually to help support the national effort. ASCO has developed a weekly briefing note which is available freely to any Special I want to express my gratitude for the dedication Special Impact is supported by Citizens Constable. The COVID-19 update is available in Policing Practitioner’s, Stakeholders and public-spirited actions of each and every at www.asco.police.uk FOLLOW US ON and Volunteers. Thanks goes to Graham FRONT PAGE: MERSEYSIDE one of you - thank you and please take care of Holmes for supporting artwork and TWITTER SPECIAL CONSTABLES Any specific enquiries in relation to welfare or design. To submit an article or to give @SCIMPACTMAG yourselves, your families and each other. feedback please email:Tina.shelton@ support please email: gmp.police.uk Chief Constable Lisa Winward [email protected]

2 SPECIAL IMPACT ISSUE 38 ISSUE 38 SPECIAL IMPACT 3 forward to getting started and engaging with the community, as well as the opportunity to continue to develop new skills.

James Turner grew up in Tyldesley, and at the age of six he joined the local Scout movement and became a Beaver. Fourteen years later, James is now Assistant County Youth Commissioner for Greater Manchester West Scouts. James cited the friendships he has made during scouting, as the motivation for becoming a GMP WELCOMES NEW .

SPECIAL CONSTABLES Natalie Showell became a Volunteer Police Cadet in 2013; having wanted to join the Police Greater Manchester Police (GMP) welcomed 17 from an early age. At 18, Natalie joined GMP as new Special Constables at the latest attestation an apprentice and in June 2019, she successfully ceremony at Sedgley Park on Tuesday 25 attained a full-time role as a member of Police February 2020. Staff working in the Operational Communications The new recruits were joined by their family and Branch. With a passion for helping the friends, as well as GMP Chief Superintendent community and a desire to learn new skills, Stuart Ellison, Special Constabulary Chief Natalie decided to join the Special Constabulary Officer Mike Walmsley and officiating Magistrate to continue to help communities in Stockport. Stephen Paine. Aaron Moss has grown up in Whitefield and The attestation marks the end of the recruits’ has been posted to Bury – his local division. He We would like to remember working from Rye Police as Martin arrived at the church, five-month training programme and the start of decided to become a Special Constable in order Special Constable 1457 Martin Station. He then moved to with the prison van following the their volunteer role. Before being sworn in as a to give back something and help improve his Hovenden MBE, who sadly died Hastings and would drive the hearse. Constable and receiving their police authorities, community. Aaron is now thinking of becoming on 1st January, 2020. prison van every Friday and Sussex Police state: ‘Martin the volunteers must make a declaration which is a full-time Police Officer, after gaining valuable Saturday night, providing Martin joined the Sussex was a true public servant known as the Police Oath. knowledge and experience whilst on the training prisoner transport and support programme. Aaron said that he has thoroughly Special Constabulary in 1981, to custody every weekend. who gave his all as a Special Lily Li-Yong grew up in Manchester and has enjoyed getting to know his colleagues during the Martin joined Sussex Police as Constable for almost 40 years. been posted to Bolton. For the last seven years, five-month training programme, and would like to a paid member of staff in 2001, He was absolutely devoted Lily has worked as a Biomedical Scientist at wish them the very best of luck moving forwards and had been working as the to his role and his colleagues Manchester University Foundation NHS Trust, Supervisor in Hastings Front he served with. He was much Chief Superintendent Stuart Ellison said: and recently received her specialist status Enquiry Counter at the time of loved and never missed “The skills and experience that Special in biochemistry. In her spare-time, she has his death. a weekend supporting his delivered inspirational talks and workshops on Constables often bring are invaluable to Greater colleagues driving the prison biomedical science in primary schools and at Manchester Police. They play a pivotal role in Martin also helped run the van. He was just simply an children clubs. She has volunteered as a Special policing Greater Manchester and helping build Hastings and Rother Volunteer integral part of our policing to fulfil her childhood dream and give back to the relationships, which only makes our communities Police Cadets for 10 years. family and can never be community. Lily also wants to inspire her three stronger. “The fact that they volunteer in their replaced. As one colleague put Martin was recognised for his children to follow their dreams and believe in own time is commendable and it’s great to see it ‘He has left a Martin shaped work with the Police in 2013 themselves. their dedication and commitment to supporting hole that no one can fill.’ He is GMP. Each recruit has their own personal when he received an MBE from so sorely missed, however his Andrew Smethurst has been posted to the City reasons for joining GMP and I always enjoy The Queen. memory will always live on and of Manchester Division and will be based in hearing the reasons why our Specials choose to we will always treasure those Martins’ funeral was held South Manchester. Andrew had a brief career in volunteer. It’s always pleasing to hear how each many experiences we shared on 29th January 2020, and engineering where he helped work on the set of Special want to make a difference, especially with him. We just simply as a there were over 450 people in Strictly Come Dancing and helped to build the within our local communities, by tackling crime Force loved him. Thank you attendance, including the Chief machine used on Tipping Point. Andrew applied and protecting people. I would like to take this Martin for your service to us all.’ Constable. The Officers formed to become a Special Constable as he wanted opportunity to thank the recruits and wish them a guard of honour up the road to undertake a new challenge. He is looking the best of luck on their journeys” Rest in Peace Martin

4 SPECIAL IMPACT ISSUE 38 ISSUE 38 SPECIAL IMPACT 5 Jennings from South Yorkshire Police and hearts and minds and has really ESSEX POLICE Group Commander Nicola Lown from London helped us to communicate with CELEBRATES Fire Brigade. people. Una Jennings, who has been in policing for 18 “Jon’s new skill is a big INTERNATIONAL years said: “‘Get out of your own way’, that’s advantage operationally too, what my mother would say to me. My mother as it’s easier to spot drivers WOMEN’S DAY remains the most inspirational person to me. on mobile phones or without I put my head down and let the work speak seatbelts from a bike. His skills for itself. It takes some maturity and time to have extended the flexibility realise I belong here as much as anyone else. and reach of the Safer Roads The people that I get to work with everyday are Team and I am confident that some of the most exceptional people you’ll ever Jon is a major tool in our bid to meet. You’re all heroes and heroines.” reduce the number of casualties and undertaking enforcement on the roads of Leicester, Chief Superintendent Una Jennings, BIKE LOVING duties. I’ve seen just what an Leicestershire and Rutland.” South Yorkshire Police invaluable resource the bikes SPECIAL are to us. The Safer Roads Team is primarily lead by Specials with CONSTABLE “Leicestershire Police is one the support of Co-ordinator of the only Forces in the PC Fiona White. She said: TAKES TO country to offer motorcycle “Inspector Emma Spencer training to Special Constables, and Traffic Management The IWD attendees showing their TWO WHEELS which without doubt increases Supervisor Graham Compton support for #EachForEqual A Leicestershire Police Special our capabilities as a Special have really supported the Safer Constabulary and Police Force Roads Team to work hard to International Women’s Day took place Officer has become the as a whole.” reduce road casualties through on Sunday 8th March 2020, which is a Force’s first Volunteer Police community engagement and celebration raising awareness about women’s Motorcyclist after passing his training. Last year Jon helped to form targeted traffic operations. Jon health, striving to improve gender relations, a dedicated specialist unit of has proved invaluable in raising promote gender equality and highlight female Special Inspector Jon Mansfield Specials, the Safer Roads the visibility of the SRT by role models from various industries and has always been passionate Team, who volunteer their time engaging with the motorcycle Essex Police Officers and staff also hosted backgrounds. about biking. Since joining to improve road safety and law community and being a vital informative workshops, including Specialist Leicestershire Police as a enforcement. part of our pre-planned traffic As part of the celebrations, more than 250 Operations PC Dawn Wood, telling her Special seven years ago, he’s operations, such as cracking women and men from the Essex Emergency Special Inspector Stuart tremendous story of her journey to become the spent a lot of time and effort down on speeding on routes Services came together to take action for Mottershaw, lead for the Safer second fastest woman to row solo across the working to reduce the number that we know motorcyclists equality at Hyland’s House, Chelmsford on Roads Team said: “It just made Atlantic in 53 days whilst raising awareness of of people killed and injured on regularly frequent.” Friday 6th March at the International Women’s plastic pollution. our roads. perfect sense to have Jon Day Conference 2020. The day was a on a bike. He’s an advanced Jon added: “Leicestershire fantastic opportunity to celebrate some of the Essex Police raised awareness and promoting Jon said: “I’ve always been a motorcyclist in his own right Police’s Special Constabulary inspirational women from different areas and a gender equal workplace throughout March by keen motorcyclist, riding on with decades of riding under his is in the midst of many changes roles in the Force. sharing stories about their strong female officers both the road and track and belt, and is an examiner for the with a strong focus on the and staff members, including the women that helping motorcyclists train for IAM, so I can’t think of anyone formation of specialist teams The Essex Police Women’s Leadership and inspire them and their advice for women who their Advanced Rider Course better to do it. to utilise the diverse range of Development Forum (WLDF) worked together are thinking about joining Essex Police. with my local IAM RoadSmart. skills that volunteers bring to “Motorcyclists are by far the with Essex County Fire & Rescue, East of the Force. The Safer Roads highest demographic of road England Ambulance Service and the Police, “I feel very privileged to have Team is an example of this and casualties in Leicestershire Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex to host been selected to be the first we’ve achieved great results and the team have done a lot the conference celebrating the #EachForEqual Leicestershire Special to join since our formation. There are of work with motorcyclists to theme of the awareness day. the Motorcycle Officers. Since exciting changes happening try to protect them. Having Jon passing my test I’ve already and it’s never been a better The event featured inspirational talks from there to relate from a biking spent many hours out on the time to volunteer and make a speakers including Chief Superintendent Una standpoint really does win bike, engaging with people difference.”

6 SPECIAL IMPACT ISSUE 38 ISSUE 38 SPECIAL IMPACT 7 Hertfordshire’s Specials Development Assistant Manager, Charlotte Baker said: “We were thrilled with the excellent feedback from both participants and the experts who gave their time Stuart said: “We made it with just minutes to to help run the testing scenarios. It was even spare – after we got the car into the ambulance more successful than our previous training day bay, I ran over to assist to find that the baby and there was learning to help make future was crowning. Luckily one of the ambulance immersive training days more effective.” crews was there after dropping off another patient, so thankfully they were able to take HERTFORDSHIRE over. SPECIAL “The baby actually had to be delivered in the car park, as the woman was too far along to be CONSTABULARY moved! The NHS staff really did all of the work, they were absolutely fantastic. We were so glad IMMERSIVE TRAINING to be able to help, and it was so lovely for the couple to invite us back to the hospital to take DAY some pictures with their healthy baby boy!”

Welcome to the world baby Levin! A REALLY SPECIAL DELIVERY! Two Hertfordshire Special Constables from the Road Policing Unit (RPU) were in for a surprise when they were flagged down to help a mum- to-be who had gone into labour on the back seat of her car.

Lancashire Special Constabulary supported SC Stuart Murray and SC Matt Henderson with licencing were patrolling the A1(M) in slow-moving traffic checks in Chorley when an ambulance flagged them down. The Some 35 Specials attended Hertfordshire recently. With the paramedics said that there was an issue with Special Constabulary’s immersive training day help of Barney the car in front, but they couldn’t help because at Police HQ, with all who gave feedback saying the Labrador they they had a patient on board. they found it enjoyable and useful. located some The Specials pulled over to find a heavily Scenarios on the day included: illegal substances and dealt with the individuals carrying these pregnant passenger who was in the late stages • Domestic abuse accordingly. of labour. • Major crime Stuart and Matt escorted the vehicle onto the hard shoulder, and provided an escort away • Stop Search from the congested traffic. Another RPU vehicle met them at the junction 8 turn off to Stevenage, • County lines and both vehicles escorted the couple to Lister • Drink driving Hospital in Stevenage.

• Missing persons

• Sexual offences

8 SPECIAL IMPACT ISSUE 38 ISSUE 38 SPECIAL IMPACT 9 also required streamlining to maximise learning A VERY SPECIAL potential.

CONTRIBUTION An inspirational and motivated leader was needed to step forward and commit to rejuvenating the training programme and the providing of experienced direction. Andrew was this person, and offered, without hesitation to provide his knowledge and support to the Force training department.

In addition to normal weekend duties, Andrew reviewed the entire training package provided and compared it against standards recommended by the College of Policing ILS4C Programme making adjustments to training material. He also reviewed hundreds of knowledge questions and prepared electronic exams for students as well as reviewing, preparing and organising practical training exercises.

All this was against a backdrop of being a father to two young children and a busy international businessman. With over 35 years’ experience as a Special Constable, he still has the affable and friendly personality, which is a credit to him. SPECIAL CONSTABULARY His ‘can do’ attitude and willingness to act for the Constabulary and community as a whole is humbling. Respected by peers and students COVID-19 SUPPORT alike, Andrew is, without doubt the embodiment of a professional Special Constable.

West Yorkshire Police currently provides Since its inception the West Yorkshire Police training to over 120+ new Special Constables Cohort System has provided 120 officers to per year. The Cohort Training Programme is districts. Andrew has personally trained over 83 delivered over 30 weeks at the Force Training of those officers and worked 760 hours in doing School by a team of dedicated Specials so. Trainers, of which Special Constable Andrew is a senior line manager.

Such a model enables Special Constables to be trained by those with knowledge and experience unique to the Special Constabulary. It provides West Yorkshire Police with over 2,000 hours of additional policing. Prior to the Cohort System a Modular System was in place which differed considerably from the current training model. When the transition took place a legacy existed of some outdated material and gaps appeared which required attention, particularly around technological advancements in training. Practical learning experiences were

10 SPECIAL IMPACT ISSUE 38 Lancashire’s delivery was made to a massive Waitrose warehouse and the bulk pallets had to be broken down; the Officers had to count out the number of packs or items and then assemble each Borough’s delivery. The National Police Chiefs’ Council have asked example of this. This enables me to give Each Council was then given a collection time partners on the Employer Supported Policing additional support to my community that I and when the vehicles arrived the Officers Scheme to consider providing additional leave work and live in. The skills I have developed organised them to reverse into the chilled to their staff that are Special Constables so they as an officer have definitely been transferable warehouse, shut the roller shutters then loaded can support the Police Service in managing the back into the paid workplace, so it’s a two-way the vehicles by hand. impact of the Coronavirus. benefit. The increase in confidence is definitely The Officers were operating in a refrigerated, a skill that has increased drastically and the One of the companies that responded to this chilled warehouse with temperature set at 2 ability to de-escalate a volatile situation in a is Tesco. Tesco have been an Employer degrees; so it was a very cold duty for them all! professional manner using your communication LANCASHIRE SPECIAL Supported Policing (ESP) partner for almost skills is another amazing skill I don’t think CONSTABULARY SUPPORT three years now, and despite being under I could have achieved anywhere else. I pressure for them to provide an essential thoroughly enjoy being a Special Constable; it is COVID-19 service to the public in these challenging a challenging, rewarding role, particular in these times, they have increased their support for the times, where no two situations are the same.” The Lancashire Special Constabulary were Special Constabulary during COVID-19. contacted by a regular Sergeant from the ACC Andrew Slattery, who is the NPCC Lancashire Resilience Forum and asked to Tesco have 50 employees from 25 Forces lead for Employer Supported Policing says: help. The Government had made a purchase across England and Wales who are Special “Employer Supported Policing is an effective of food to be distributed to each County. 10 Constables and have already donated through partnership between employers, their staff and Special Constables together with 3 Civilian the National ESP the Police Service, Speed Enforcement Officers helped to sort the Scheme just over devised to support food for distribution across the 14 Boroughs of 4800 hours of policing Citizens in Policing Lancashire to local communities, in their voluntary as well as encouraging duties enabling them their managers to to increase public understand their safety and confidence. employees’ voluntary role as a Special Despite the difficulties Tesco are also Waitrose supplied cut daffodils during the Constable; last year two Tesco managers went experiencing through this crisis, I am grateful for Operation to help brighten the lives of out on observation patrol with Merseyside their generosity and ongoing commitment to our isolated people. Special Constabulary. partnership, and thank them for demonstrating a commitment to supporting policing, and Tesco People Director for UK and ultimately the community, at this critical time. ROI, Emma Taylor, said: “These are Special unprecedented times and our colleagues There are 185 organisations that are registered Constables based throughout the UK are doing fantastic on the ESP Scheme nationally, and the at Greenbank, work in their local communities. We have response that we have received to the request Lancashire spent extended our paid support for Special from the NPCC has been overwhelming, both the weekend Constables in Tesco from one week to three from our ESP partners and new businesses deploying on foot weeks to ensure that these colleagues can who wish to support their staff that are Special into Blackburn; perform their duties during this important Constables.” Engaging, time.” Explaining, If you represent an ESP business willing to Encouraging or, Special Constable Shane McKinney who extend your existing commitment, or wish to join as a last resort, volunteers for Lancashire Constabulary has the Scheme, please contact the ESP National Enforcing the COVID Regulations where been a Special Constable since September Team on [email protected] and somebody applicable. On this occasion, happily no 2018. He says: “Tesco is very supportive of will be in touch with you to discuss how you can SPECIAL INSPECTOR PETER ALLEN Enforcement proved necessary. helping the community in many ways, and help us to meet this challenge. the ESP leave they provide is another great

12 SPECIAL IMPACT ISSUE 38 ISSUE 38 SPECIAL IMPACT 13 I feel are valuable for both my roles are being more able to defuse situations; I am a good listener and can see the bigger picture.”

“ESP has enabled me to attend Court without using my annual leave. Last year I was The love to say that my original reason for wanting invited to attend the Regular’s Police Senior Department to join the regular police service many years Management Team building day in Morecambe. of Work & ago was because I wanted to make a difference ESP support enabled me to attend the day, Pensions to people’s lives and make my community which I thoroughly enjoyed and got a lot out of have officially better. It wasn’t; it was down to the fact that I attending..” become an would be able to drive round the city with blue Employer lights on and arrest bad guys! Supported Policing partner offering their staff who are Now I am older and I have children, I decided Special Constables an addition 12 days leave to actually join as a Special Constable to per annum to undertake their voluntary duties/ make a difference to the community and make training. This is extended to Police Support the streets safer for my children. I volunteer Volunteers in terms of 3 additional days per at Longton Police Station as part of the annum. Neighbourhood Team.

Let’s meet some of the Special Constables In the day I work for the DWP as a Duty Team who are working within the organisation. Leader and a Work Coach. I support people back into work and help them with life related issues. I guess supporting people is in my blood, volunteering with the police gives me different challenges, but similar goals. ‘Help the people that need support and be there when people need you the most.’ My “day job” has police officer and applied when I was 21. I helped me to defuse situations whilst out with wasn’t tall enough for Lancashire so applied for the Police as I have spoken to people that I GMP but was unsuccessful so I continued my have supported with the DWP, meaning that career in the Civil Service.” they see past the uniform and work with me. I have been able to stop anti-social behaviour Sonya married at 23 years of age, had children, simply because they knew me. and then divorced in her late 30’s, and at this point re-evaluated her life; still wanting to be ESP has helped me to work different shifts, it a Police Officer, but unable to do this full time also makes me feel valued by my employer with children to care for, she became a Special as they recognise the importance of Specials Constable. Sonya continues: “Becoming a within the community; the community that I also Special enabled me to give something back to support in the day job. I have been able to do the community which also fulfilled my need to shifts that I would not normally have been able be a Police Officer, but in a way that would fit in to do, like a night shift as they have counted this with my work and home life.” as my working day, meaning that I could have Steve joined BTP Special Constabulary in the following day off. “I have been a Visiting Officer for DWP for 17 September 2016 and for over two years years. Initially the job was just visiting the over has been a Temporary Special Sergeant in 65’s; now I visit all ages. I visit the vulnerable Nottingham, East Midlands, being responsible - be it elderly, drug/alcohol dependant, mental for the welfare and development of 12 Special Sonya joined Lancashire Special Constabulary health or with other disabilities. I don’t always Officers, which has been an entirely new, on 30 March 2007 and is currently a Special know how the person I am visiting is going challenging and rewarding role. Inspector in West Division (Blackpool) working to be, and I attend alone. However, being Mark joined Staffordshire Special Constabulary on Incident Response. a Special has given me more confidence in He says “During my time with BTP I’ve learned in July 2019, and attested in November of the dealing with confrontation in a customer’s home many, skills, I am still learning now and will same year. Mark, known as GJ, says: “I would Sonya says: “I had always wanted to be a compared with my colleagues. Qualities that

14 SPECIAL IMPACT ISSUE 38 ISSUE 38 SPECIAL IMPACT 15 continue to do so. I’ve always considered which would give something back to the public myself fairly capable with regard to “conflict service. I considered many different roles in resolution” and both the DWP and BTP roles the voluntary sector but when I narrowed them work very well together. My paid role at the all down, nothing could beat what working in DWP is a Fraud Investigator, as well as a West Yorkshire Police as a Special Constable Mental Health First Aider (Mental Health could offer. Looking back it’s one of the most England). rewarding things I’ve done - I’ve seen and experienced things which I would never had. During my DWP duties I’ve also been able to apply my emergency first aid training I’ve worked in the Department of Work and and experience gained with BTP to medical Pensions (DWP) since leaving school. They emergencies. One example included a DWP have always been great to work for but the “I AM DELIGHTED THAT DWP IS customer that became unconscious during an help and support they give to their employees interview and another, more severe incident, working in voluntary roles in second to none. As SUPPORTING THE EMPLOYER involved a person that was ran over by a bus in an ESP supporting employer, the DWP provide Nottingham City Centre during my lunch break. time off for training courses and also for specific As one of the first on scene, I attempted life– Police targeted operations in which we are SUPPORTED POLICING SCHEME. saving skills and continued to assist the lone sometimes able to participate. paramedic who arrived later. Sadly the person died, but these incidents demonstrate where, The DWP are keen to encourage use of the PROVIDING PAID SPECIAL LEAVE TO through training and experience individuals are transferable skills in their workplace as both given the opportunity to step in and help out organisations are public facing and deal with ENABLE INDIVIDUALS TO VOLUNTEER where the general public might be unable or some of the most vulnerable people in society unwilling to do so. who sometimes has the same issues and problems. Invariably, the solutions to these AS SPECIAL CONSTABLES ENABLES The ESP leave allows me to pre-plan and book complex issues cross-over and the skills I have any “day time events” and on occasion, I’ve learned from the Police service have enabled had to leave the “day job” early or take days off me offer better advice and more focused DWP EMPLOYEES TO PLAY THEIR PART at short notice to undertake emergency police help to our customers. This also works in work, for example, the fire that occurred at reverse. I have also seen links in the work Nottingham Railway Station a few years ago both organisations undertake and been able to IN MAKING THEIR LOCAL COMMUNITIES or to provide high visibility policing and public help save resource, encourage compliance and reassurance following terrorist related incidents. offer a better informed service to customers. SAFER AS WELL AS DEVELOPING NEW ESP has definitely allowed me to offer my I have been able to undertake my DWP role policing service. more effectively as working with the Police has improved my skills in listening, situation SKILLS WHICH THEY CAN TRANSFER TO As a Special Constable you’ll frequently have to analysis, seeing situations from the customer show resilience, independence, self-motivation point of view and interviewing.” and certainly dedication. The rewards are THEIR WORK IN DWP.” immeasurable however and so far, my police work has been the most rewarding job I’ve ever had the pleasure of undertaking.”

Steve joined the West Yorkshire Special DEBBIE ALDER, Constabulary in 2008 and is based in Leeds mainly policing on Response and on Neighbourhood Policing Teams operations. DWP DIRECTOR GENERAL FOR PEOPLE Steve says: “As I’d been working for the DWP for some 30 years and needed to broaden AND CAPABILITY my skill base, add a new dimension to my working life. I also wanted to do something

16 SPECIAL IMPACT ISSUE 38 UK HYDROGRAPHIC OFFICE BECOMES ESP PARTNER UK Hydrographic Office is an outpost of the Ministry of Defence located in Taunton, Avon & Somerset, where 850 employees are engaged in making and LATEST ESP marketing marine charts for military and civil use. The photo shows Superintendent Simon PARTNERS Brickwood (far right) presented the ESP Certificate of Participation to Amy Carrillo, Head of People. St Antonys Catholic College, Manchester DYFED-POWYS POLICE HAS SIGNED UP ITS FIRST LOCAL Stambridge Group AUTHORITY FOR EMPLOYER SUPPORTED POLICING MERSEYSIDE POLICE The Cambian Group Powys County Council has agreed to support WEST YORKSHIRE POLICE SPECIAL ATTEND PASSPORT OFFICE employees who volunteer with the Force CONSTABLE MEGAN SMITH IS UNABLE as Special Constables or Police Support TO CONTINUE WITH HER PAID ROLE IN A Volunteers with additional paid leave and UK Hydrographic Office BAR DUE TO THE CURRENT GOVERNMENT training days. GUIDELINES. HOWEVER, MEGAN ALSO The Council will give employees five days paid WORKS PART TIME WISHING TREE As the 19 Government Departments have now leave per year to undertake volunteer duties, as NURSERY. WITH KEY WORKERS CHILDREN pledged to offer their Civil Service staff 12 days well as an extra 10 days off per year for training. Powys County Council ONLY BEING ABLE TO ATTEND THERE HAS per year Employer Supported Policing leave, BEEN A DECREASE IN WORK THEREFORE Merseyside Police attended at the Passport Dyfed-Powys Police used the services of a HER MANAGER HAS ALLOWED MEGAN Office in the city centre to promote the role to drive the Employer TIME TO VOLUNTEER AS A SPECIAL of Special Constable to its staff. They have Supported Policing agenda forward for the Sepura CONSTABLE ON A FULL TIME BASIS. also attended an event at VOSA (Vehicle and Force. Dr Martin Wright, an academic and Operator Services Agency) too. MEGAN SAYS: “IT IS AN ABSOLUTE retired Police Inspector who has moved to PLEASURE TO BE ABLE TO VOLUNTEER Powys from the West Midlands area, has been AS A SPECIAL CONSTABLE ON A FULL recruited into the role of Employer Supported Zoom Entertainments Limited TIME BASIS AND WORK ALONGSIDE MY Policing Support Volunteer. REGULAR COLLEAGUES. AS OFFICERS WE Pictured is Superintendent Ifan Charles - TAKE AN OATH TO THE QUEEN TO SERVE Divisional Commander for Powys, Councillor AND PROTECT OUR COMMUNITIES. WITH Rosemarie Harris, Leader of Powys County Pro-Networks Limited THE CURRENT SITUATION I COULDN’T Council and Dr Martin Wright, Employer THINK OF A BETTER WAY TO SPEND MY Supported Policing Support Volunteer, Dyfed TIME THAN TO BE A PART OF KEEPING OUR Powys Police. COMMUNITIES SAFE AT A TIME OF URGENT NEED.”

18 SPECIAL IMPACT ISSUE 38 ISSUE 38 SPECIAL IMPACT 19 volunteering and informing them about the ESP presented, any misconceptions addressed Scheme. and objections overcome. In most cases, the decision whether or not to join will be taken The first requirement is to research or obtain at a high level, so an instant result is unlikely. accurate data concerning suitable employers Organisations with established volunteering and the relevant staff to approach about ESP – policies are often more receptive to the concept these are often at a senior level and are likely of ESP and the benefits it offers for all involved. to have particular responsibility for volunteering policy, or human resources in general. Overall, meeting face-to-face is helpful in moving the process on, although reaching the They are initially approached by email or point where an organisation completes the telephone, and I take care to present the registration form can be achieved via email benefits of joining ESP in an easily understood and/or phone calls alone. This is especially the and engaging way. Nevertheless, I soon case when dealing with national organisations learnt that an approach from the Police is with head offices elsewhere in the country. no guarantee that I will receive a positive In general, getting organisations, especially response, or even a reply!” private sector companies, to become ESP a At this stage, the objective is to initiate a partner is far from easy, but the satisfaction to conversation and arrange a meeting with be gained from signing up a new partner more the employer at which the Scheme can be than makes up for it!”

CASE STUDY Local councils and other community- facing organisations are generally very enthusiastic about the scheme, very suitable ESP candidates, as and, once some specific points had they empathise with its objectives been resolved, she took it forward and benefits and have established and was soon able to register South CAMBRIDGESHIRE to prospective scheme partners, with the aim of getting them to register. relationships with their local Police Cambridgeshire District Council as ESP POLICE SUPPORT Forces. This has recently been an ESP partner. This covered staff Some Police Forces in England and Wales living in Cambridgeshire and the VOLUNTEER employ staff whose role includes encouraging borne out by South local employers to join the Scheme. It has Cambridgeshire neighbouring county The role of Police Support Volunteers in also been demonstrated that Police Support District Council which, of Bedfordshire who promoting and increasing uptake of the Volunteers with appropriate backgrounds are, or may become, Employer Supported Policing Scheme along with some 20 and skills can make valuable contributions in members of the this area, whether undertaking all aspects of other Local Authorities Employer Supported Policing (ESP) is a Home the role individually, or working as part of a throughout England Special Constabulary. Office sponsored scheme that benefits the team. Chris Meakin, who is a Police Support police, employers, their staff and the public and Wales, has Volunteer in Cambridgeshire Constabulary, is a An ESP Partnership throughout England and Wales. When they become an ESP partner. fantastic example of this. Certificate was presented to the become ESP partners, employers agree to Council by the Assistant Chief grant staff that are, or become, a Special Chris says: “I wanted to devote some of my free The Council was recruited by a Constable and/or Police Support Volunteer, time and expertise to a cause that I considered Cambridgeshire Constabulary Police Constable of Cambridgeshire and additional paid leave to help them meet their especially worthwhile and the Police were at the Support Volunteer, who specialises Specials recruitment events are now duty and training commitments. They also agree top of my shortlist. I hadn’t heard of ESP before being organised at the Council’s HQ to allow these voluntary roles to be promoted in ESP. He contacted a relevant being offered the voluntary role, but quickly in Cambourne, near Cambridge. within the workplace. became familiar with its many aspects, which senior council official by email. At include identifying suitable target organisations, a subsequent meeting, it was clear All parties gain from the Scheme and its contacting the people responsible for employee benefits have to be communicated effectively from the outset that the official was

20 SPECIAL IMPACT ISSUE 38 ISSUE 38 SPECIAL IMPACT 21 SOUTH YORKSHIRE POLICE evenings: “Things are definitely different, but LOCAL EMPLOYER lots of us want to give more than ever. We want SPECIAL CONTRIBUTION to be here, and we want to be part of it. We’re SUPPORTS WEST still attending incidents such as collisions, CONTRIBUTION TO FORCE burglaries and searching for missing people, but YORKSHIRE COVID-19 RESPONSE we’re also speaking to people about COVID-19, SPECIAL ensuring people are staying safe and being responsible.” CONSTABLE Special Deputy Chief Officer Craig Batham Special Constable Stephanie said: “In the last few weeks our Officers have Kovrlija is a Special Constable really stepped things up a gear. They’ve serving at Bradford East done long shifts and some have worked full District, West Yorkshire. Steph six-day rotas with regular colleagues due to attested as an officer on the being furloughed from their day jobs. This is a 21st July 2019. massive commitment and speaking personally, I can’t thank our Special Constables enough Steph’s full time employment for what they have given so far, and what they is as a store manager for will no doubt continue to give over the coming SportsBike Shop Leeds. As months.” part of her Specials duties she also assists as a Cadet “Our Special Constables continue to attend Leader with the Bradford East serious incidents, supporting vulnerable victims Volunteer Police Cadet Unit on and their colleagues, whilst also balancing a weekly basis. commitments from their day jobs and family life. South Yorkshire Police are always proud of their As well as working full time, fantastic Special Constables, but over the last They have also taken the time to develop Steph is also Mum to a few weeks recognise the incredible contribution community relationships at what is a stressful teenage son, and she became they have made to the Force COVID-19 time for so many people, with one Special a Special Constable because so many great friends. I see support from my Company - response. Constable simply lending a hand with a dog she wanted to be a positive my colleagues and friends they are not only supportive of walk. role model for her son and struggling at this awful time my role - but are very proud of Hundreds of Special Constables, all volunteers, wanted him to grow up seeing and staff numbers fall that I me for doing what I do.” We couldn’t be prouder.” have continued to give up their time to support the Police as people he could feel I have a duty to step up the regular officers across South Yorkshire. In trust and respect - and also and help where I can. I am Rotherham alone, Special Constables carried Assistant Chief Constable David Hartley said: “I cannot stress enough how thankful I am to because Steph also loves a fortunate to have amazing out 1,101 hours of duties in March, including challenge. response shifts and proactive patrols alongside have such dedicated and passionate people our neighbourhood teams. within our Force at this time. The Special As a result of the current Constabulary are a vital asset as we continue to COVID-19 situation Steph has They have provided vital support for deal with the challenges COVID-19 poses, and been furloughed from her full engagement work, encouraging communities are a hugely significant support to our regular time employment. With her and businesses to practice social distancing officers. I think it’s important that the public are employers full support Steph and advising the public on how to adhere to aware of the volunteers we have amongst our is now supporting her policing government guidelines. ranks, not just at the moment, but throughout team at Bradford East full time, the year.” Not only that, they’ve continued to secure some completing the full range of fantastic results, with two Barnsley Special “At a time when people are acknowledging shifts. Officers seizing a significant amount of drugs the work of our frontline services, those who Steph says “It’s the best and cash from a vehicle whilst carrying out volunteer their experience, skills and time decision I’ve ever made to ‘social distancing patrols’ last week. should certainly get recognition. I would also become a Special Constable. like to acknowledge employers who support our T/Special Sergeant Jamie Jackson is running I am part of something Special Constabulary, by being flexible and just that is striving to make a his business from home in the day, and then as passionate as those who volunteer.” putting in extra hours with the Force in the difference and I have made

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