Nominations for Thames Valley Police's 20th Community Awards close today

Nominations for officers and volunteers close today for Thames Valley Police's Community Policing Awards.

This ceremony is now in its twentieth year and provides an opportunity to recognise and nominate the work of officers, staff and volunteers who have made the greatest contribution to their community over the past year.

The nominations will be collated and sifted down to a shortlist before they are put to a panel of judges who will make the final decision of who the community champions are.

This year there are eight categories:

1. Community Police Officer 2021

Do you know a neighbourhood police officer who has made a difference to your community? Examples should demonstrate an ability to work within the officer’s community to tackle issues, defuse tensions and encourage or instigate positive engagement, not only working alone but with partners and colleagues.

2. Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) 2021

Can you think of a PCSO who has made an outstanding contribution to your community? Examples should include clear evidence of working with different members of the community to resolve issues and build relations and trust. PCSOs should encourage engagement with the police in a comfortable and honest manner and work well within the community and with colleagues and partners.

3. Special Constable 2021

Do you know a Special Constable who has gone above and beyond to serve your community? Examples should include how they have helped your community, working with public and colleagues to assist in easing community tensions or solving issues.

4. Diversity Champion 2021

Diversity champions improve engagement with minority groups in the community, working towards increasing diversity and improving accessibility between the force and the public. Do you know someone who has helped to improve diversity in your community? Examples should include how they have worked in the community with minority groups and on initiatives to raise awareness of diversity issues.

5. Cadet 2021

Cadets are young dedicated volunteers who want to make a difference in their community. Do you know a cadet who supports fellow cadets, shows initiative, supports community events, is committed to and is an advocate for the police force? Examples should include how they engage with local communities, how they are forward thinking and keen to progress within the cadet unit.

6. Volunteer 2021

Do you know a volunteer who actively supports the police and volunteers to work within a team in Thames Valley Police? Examples should include how they are an ambassador for the force, giving their time, own ideas and suggestions in order to improve how things are done.

7. Community Volunteer 2021

Do you know a volunteer who assists with community concerns and enforcing the law? They are not employed by Thames Valley Police but work voluntarily to support the community they live/work within, enforcing the law or assisting with community concerns or working within the community to offer advice and create a safer and more welcoming environment.

8. Problem Solving Award 2021

Do you know an individual or team who have worked collectively to problem solve a community issue connected to crime reduction, anti-social behaviour and/or vulnerability which has made a real difference to a community. This can include partners, third sector and community members, as well as police staff and police officers across all departments.

The Community Policing Awards take place annually at a ceremony held in Oxfordshire.