Police Support Volunteers

As part of Volunteers Celebration Week, we’re highlighting our dedicated volunteers and the work that they do.  

Today, we shine a light on our Police Support Volunteers (PSV) and the monumental support they provide to the Force. By contributing their time, skills and knowledge, our PSVs operate as an extension of the policing community, making a meaningful impact on community resilience. They build trust and rapport between our Force and the community while enhancing our efficiency.  

Citizens in Policing manger, Phil Croney said: “Our Police Service Volunteers are incredibly impactful on our communities within Northamptonshire. There is no blueprint for a typical volunteer, they come from all walks of life with varying backgrounds and experiences. The only common attribute our volunteers share is a motivation to offer their free time to support us in making Northamptonshire a safer place to be.” 

We asked some of our Police Staff Volunteers to tell us why they enjoy volunteering in their departments and the impact their role has on the Force.  

The Chaplain Team  

More than ever, officers and staff need to be able to draw on a range of support and resources to help deal with arising issues. Police Chaplains recognise everybody as a complete person, approaching and caring for them in this way. The fundamental role of all chaplains is to provide safe, independent support and offer a mutual understanding to all members of staff. Chaplains are integral to our Force, as they offer much needed support, comfort and counsel without judgement. 

Steve Edwards tells us about his role as a volunteer Chaplain. Steve said: “I see myself as being a friendly ear, someone who can listen, give advice or even counselling and maybe signposting where I think others can help. I visit at least once a month to the CJC and the Fire and Rescue team at Wootton. They have been very receptive, and I like building a good rapport with them.” 

“With my previous experience, I can draw on a lot of what I know to offer the empathy and support that is needed. I think this provides a different angle for me to approach conversations with those who need it. I faced similar challenges over the years in policing and can therefore, relate. But it’s very encouraging when I feel I have made a difference to someone struggling. I feel proud. 

Chaplain Steve details the biggest challenge he faces volunteering with Northamptonshire Police. Steve said: “The biggest challenge for me is being noticed and spreading the word that I’m here and available.”  

“My role is not to preach or proselyte, its to be a supportive resource and help people in some way. I am delighted that I have the opportunity to remain a part of the police family, and I look forward to giving service to those who need it.”  

Our Volunteers

Another of our Police Support Volunteers, John Yeates tells us about his role where he provides policing support both to the public and to our officers.  

“I feel proud to work with the force because, while the work I do may feel minor, the work the force does is of great benefit to the public and community, and in a small way I am contributing to that. 

When looking back on his experience as a PSV, John said: “From my very first day as a PSV, I was made to feel very welcome and like I was an asset to the team. This only continued over the time I have been volunteering. The camaraderie and enjoyment I get from working with the team makes my day very enjoyable. Each day presents me with new and exciting challenges, and I feel like I make a real difference. 

“For me, volunteering is very rewarding. I feel a great sense of satisfaction from assisting the public with their issues and enquiries and helping our unit to perform well. Volunteering for me is a win/win case. I get to work with a great team and share their day, while relieving the Force from some of the demands placed on it. 

“I find, you have to volunteer in something that is important to you and that you take pride in. I am definitely enjoying my volunteering experience, and I would recommend it to anyone who is interested. Give it a try, you will be pleasantly surprised by how rewarding making a difference is, and you will more than likely thoroughly enjoy it as well!”  

Becoming a Police Support Volunteer is an excellent opportunity to get involved with different aspects of policing and gain experience of Northamptonshire Police. Whether you simply want to help your community or are interested in pursuing a career within the police service, everyone should get involved! 

If you are interested in getting involved and would like to learn more about the work our PSV’s do, click the link below.