Volunteers celebrated during national week

Each year the first week in June celebrates the contributions made to the community by those who give their time, skills and knowledge without charge for the benefit of others.

National Volunteers’ Week (1 – 7 June), which includes National Specials Weekend, is an opportunity to recognise the many people who volunteer across our communities and within our public services.

Volunteering has always been firmly embedded in policing with the first volunteer police officers being introduced in the 1800s. Our brilliant volunteers have been recognised over the years for the added value they bring to the Force.  

They have taken on a variety of roles across the spectrum of policing, have widened the breath of skills and knowledge within the Force, have improved our resilience and capacity and have shared their voice, views, and experience.

Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner Chief Executive Kieran Kilgallen said: “The public play an important role in how we police, and I would like to express my sincere thanks to all those who volunteer through the OPCC and Wiltshire Police.

"Whether they are special constables, Community Speed Watch, Neighbourhood Watch, volunteers working in commissioned services or Independent Custody Visitors just to name a few, the contributions volunteers make across the Force, criminal justice system and our community impacts positively on the way we work, on staff and officers, and the communities we serve.

“These people, alongside those who sit on our scrutiny panels, bring to our attention how we could improve people’s experiences of the criminal justice system in Wiltshire and Swindon.

“We really value the different outlooks, additional skills and experience these individuals bring, and appreciate the time they give for the benefit of others.

“From all of us in the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, thank you.”

Assistant Chief Constable Deb Smith lead for Citizens in Policing said: “Here at Wiltshire Police we are incredibly fortunate to be supported by so many amazing people who volunteer their time, experience and skills to help keep the people of Wiltshire safe.

“Whether that is as a Police Support Volunteer, Special Constable, Cadet Leader, as a member of one of our Independent Advisory Groups or Watch Schemes. We recognise and appreciate all you do and the valuable contribution you make.

“The last year with the global pandemic it has been particularly challenging for volunteers.

“For some it was necessary for us to ask you to stay home, and you were unable to continue the role you enjoy. Other had to adapt and change working practices to find new ways of operating, and some, at our time of need contributed more to the Force and our communities than we ever expected.

“On behalf of myself, Wiltshire Police and the communities of Wiltshire, thank you all. We are all incredibly grateful for your ongoing support, admirable public spirit and willingness to help in any way you can.

“We look forward to working more closely with all our volunteers over the next 12 months.” 

You can find out more about volunteering with Wiltshire Police including how to apply or express an interest in a role by visiting the Specials and Volunteers section under Careers on the Wiltshire Police website https://www.wiltshire.police.uk/police-forces/wiltshire-police/areas/careers/careers/