The Government is encouraging the police service and their Authorities to introduce supporting roles through the extended police family.

Many forces explored the idea of volunteers in the work place following the HMIC report “Open All hours” 2001 where it was recommended that every force should consider the option of mobilising volunteers to support policing objectives. The idea was further promoted by the Bureaucracy Taskforce and supported in the National Policing Plan 2003-2006.

Avon and Somerset Constabulary is firmly engaged in extending its family by the employment of Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), Special Constables and by piloting a regional Community Safety Accreditation Scheme (CSAS).

The Volunteering Role

A police volunteer is someone who, through personal choice, commits time to perform a task at the direction and on behalf of the organisation. They agree to do this without expectation of compensation or financial reward (except out of pocket expenses). Volunteers are not legally contracted as employees therefore they do not have employment status. It is recognised as good practice, however, to have a Volunteer Agreement that forms the basis of the partnership and outlines the expectations of both partners. The Agreement is not binding and either party may cancel at any time.

All volunteers are required to be vetted (including Counter Terrorism Checks) and sign forms agreeing to the principles of the Data Protection Act and Official Secrets Act. The security checks are similar to all other employees or extended police family members. This is in accord with one of the seven strategic principles following Bichard.

Training, Supervision and Conduct

Volunteers will be given an induction course, plus any additional role-specific training, and each district or department will provide a risk assessment where relevant.

Volunteers will naturally fall under the supervision of line managers within the department or district. They should be treated and supported in the same way as other members of the Constabulary.

The standard of conduct within Avon and Somerset Constabulary remains the same irrespective of rank or status and Volunteers will be expected to maintain the values of the organisation. Although Volunteers cannot be subject of discipline procedures, they can be offered training, advised or their Agreement terminated if the situation warrants such action. Any criminal matter will be treated in the same way as any other member of the public. Volunteers should refrain from activities that are likely to compromise their position within the Constabulary.