Wiltshire Police hails volunteers after "particularly challenging" year
"we are incredibly fortunate to be supported by so many amazing people"
Wiltshire Police have thanked their volunteers for their support, spirit and willingness to help after what they call a "particularly challenging" year.
They want to highlight the work members of the public do to support the force during National Volunteers Week.
Volunteers are a special part of policing, with the first one being introduced in the 1800s.
There are many roles across the Wiltshire force including special constables, Community Speed Watch and Neighbourhood Watch.
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."
Meanwhile, 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."
Anyone interested in volunteering with the force can find out more by visiting their website.