Leicestershire Police salutes immense contribution of volunteers as part of National Volunteers Week

Leicestershire Police are saluting the immense contribution millions of people make across the UK through volunteering as part of National Volunteers Week.

More than 700 people volunteer for our local police force.

They put in countless hours as special constables, volunteers, chaplains, cadets and cadet leaders in helping to give the best service possible to people across Leicestershire and Rutland.

Assistant Chief Constable Julia Debenham said: “We’ve encountered the most unprecedented period in coping with a worldwide pandemic. “The demands on policing have been both extraordinary and quite often unexpected, and we have had to adapt and respond.

“I am so very proud of how our volunteers have risen to this challenge. “Their commitment has been invaluable in so many different ways and is very much appreciated, now and always.”

Leicestershire’s Special Constabulary has dramatically stepped up to support frontline officers.

From April 1, 2020 to March 31, 2021, volunteer police officers contributed 40,000 hours - the equivalent of having 19 additional full-time police officers.

Along with the force, the police support volunteers have “diversified” the way they work to support the new demands and challenges faced throughout the Covid-19 outbreak.

“From taking essential personal protective equipment (PPE) to police stations, to delivering prescriptions to members of the public who were shielding – their work has made a true difference.

The force’s chaplaincy has continued to provide a spiritual care service to officers and staff,” said Leicestershire Police.

“And although chaplains have been unable to visit police stations in person, they’ve been readily available to chat over the phone or via email.”

Supt Adam Slonecki, lead for Volunteers in Policing, said: “This year our volunteers, specials, chaplains, cadets and leaders have given more to their communities than ever before - and have achieved some really incredible things.

“They have well and truly demonstrated what they do best, by stepping up and providing resilience to the force and support to our communities when it’s been needed the most.

“I’m looking forward to thanking our volunteers in person and celebrating their exceptional efforts once the restrictions have eased. “We are very grateful for each and every one of them.”

Leicestershire Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews said: “I want to say thank you for everything that our volunteers do as they are a key part of making this county the safe place that it is.

“Leicestershire Police volunteers are a valued and integral part of the force and they help to enhance and support the services we provide to the public.”

He added: “They are building stronger relationships with our communities.

“I am very grateful for their dedication and commitment in making Leicestershire a safer place.”

To find out more about volunteering opportunities with Leicestershire Police, please visit www.leics.police.uk/couldyou