Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen has praised the selfless dedication of Durham’s army of policing volunteers whose efforts are helping her to combat crime and reduce harm.
As the nation marks Volunteers’ Week (June 1-7), the County Durham and Darlington PCC reflected on the immense value volunteers bring to community safety and issued her thanks for their ongoing commitment and passion.
Volunteers’ Week celebrates the exceptional contribution made by volunteers across the UK, shining a spotlight on their unsung efforts to help communities thrive.
Volunteers serve in several community safety roles across the force area from Special Constables, Police Support Volunteers (PSVs) and Volunteer Police Cadets to magistrates, Community SpeedWatch volunteers, Independent Custody Visitors, Addictions Ambassadors, Community Peer Mentors and Scrutiny Panel volunteers.
Special Constables make up the largest portion of volunteer power across the force area, undertaking a range of duties from conducting foot and vehicle patrols to prevent crime, tackling anti-social behaviour (ASB) and crime, providing security and safety at major events and supporting roads policing operations with speed and enforcement checks.
Latest figures reveal 38 Special Constables are actively serving in the force.
While many specials support Neighbourhood Policing Teams, some are attached to Roads Policing Units and contribute to ongoing efforts to reduce harm on the roads, usually contributing a minimum of 16 hours per month (two full shifts).
Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen said: “Volunteers are the quiet force behind safer, stronger and more resilient communities.
“Through their time, dedication and commitment, they help prevent crime, support victims, strengthen neighbourhoods and make a real difference to people’s lives every day.”
“We owe so much of our safety and success to dedicated volunteers who quietly support the public, protect vulnerable people and strengthen our criminal justice system. They give thousands of hours each month to make our county safer and more resilient.
“Many balance this work with jobs and family, making their contribution even more remarkable. We are deeply grateful for, and proud of, their service.”
The OPCC in County Durham and Darlington has contributed around £10k annually to Durham Community Action (DCA) since 2019 to support community resilience and its six key priorities.
Last year, DCA was also commissioned to create a Volunteering Development Strategy to improve volunteer roles within the OPCC. Funding has helped review practices, develop a new framework, expand opportunities and deliver tailored training.
DCA is also exploring a Criminal Justice Volunteering Partnership to strengthen networks and celebrate volunteers.
Volunteers’ Week, held annually in early June, celebrates volunteers across the UK and encourages others to get involved.
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