PCC marks 40 years of National Volunteers Week

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Matthew Barber, Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley, and the Office of the PCC are proud to celebrate the 40th anniversary of National Volunteers Week (which runs from 3 – 9 June 2024).

Matthew Barber said: “National Volunteers Week provides an opportunity to recognise the important role volunteers play in policing across the Thames Valley. 

“Alongside Special Constables and Cadets, the force works with a wide range of committed volunteers from Community Speedwatch volunteers to Police Puppy Socialisers, who dedicate their own time to help Thames Valley Police keep our communities safe. In addition, my office manages the Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs) scheme

“ICVs are volunteers from the local community who perform an invaluable role in the criminal justice system by making unannounced visits to police custody suites, checking on the welfare of detainees and monitoring the conditions of the cells. ICVs give up their free time in order to help others and contribute to a fair and just system. 

“Volunteers also play a key role in the scrutiny of policing. Earlier this year, alongside the force, we published details of our Governance Review detailing a new structure of scrutiny groups from a strategic force level through to neighbourhood.  Many of these groups will be made up of volunteers from across our diverse communities who provide an independent voice and constructive challenge of policing which is so important in helping to build trust and confidence. 

“I remain truly inspired by the tireless work of all our volunteers, who give up their own time to both support and scrutinise policing on behalf of local communities. If you would like to find out more about volunteer roles in Thames Valley Police, please visit the TVP careers website.” 

During Volunteers Week, Thames Valley Police will be highlighting the role of volunteers on their social media channels – TVP Facebook, TVP Twitter and TVP LinkedIn.

If you would like to learn more about volunteering in the force, please visit the Volunteers webpage – or to check which opportunities are currently available, visit the vacancies portal