Constabulary’s volunteers celebrated at annual awards ceremony

Hertfordshire Constabulary celebrated the hard work and dedication of its Police Support Volunteers (PSV) during its annual Citizens in Policing Awards.

The ceremony was held at police headquarters in Welwyn Garden City last night (Thursday 18 May) and saw volunteers come together with family, friends, police officers and staff to mark another incredible 12 months.

The constabulary currently has around 160 PSVs, who work in more than 60 different roles across the county.

Between them, they have contributed thousands of volunteering hours over the past year.

These include role play volunteers, members of the RAPPAW scheme, Historical Society volunteers and Safer Neighbourhood Team support volunteers, as well as Special Constables and Volunteer Police Cadets and leaders.

Their support means that officers’ time is freed up to focus on frontline duties and that additional support is available for victims.

Chief Superintendent Jon Simpson, who oversees the constabulary’s Workforce Development Team, said: “This was my first time at the ceremony and it was an excellent evening. The dedication and commitment that our volunteers display is incredible.

“I’d like to say a huge well done to all the nominees and winners for everything that they do to support the constabulary and their local communities.”

The evening started with an overview of some of the great work the volunteers have undertaken, before long service award presentations were made to those who had served two, five and 10 years respectively.

The category winners were then announced and were presented with their awards by Chief Constable Charlie Hall and Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Lewis Cocking.

Deputy PCC Lewis Cocking said: “I continue to be immensely proud of all the Special Constables and volunteers who give up their valuable free time to give back to their communities.

“Keeping Hertfordshire safe is something we all have a stake in and to which we can all make a contribution. There are a huge variety of ways people can help out and I urge everyone to get involved in this rewarding activity.”

The winners on the evening were as follows:

Exceptional Contribution to the Stevenage Dog Watch Scheme – Dawn Sheldrick.
Whilst out on their daily walks, Dog Watch members keep an eye on their local community and report any criminal or suspicious activity they might spot. This could include ASB, damage, graffiti, or a suspected crime in progress.

RAPPAW Partners of the Year – Hannah Davidson and dog Poppy, and Jo Healey and dog Hugo (joint winners, countywide)
The RAPPAW team is made up of volunteers and their trusty four-legged companions, who provide after-care and support to vulnerable witnesses and victims of crime, to help them feel more at ease and restore their trust and confidence.
Jo and Hugo have also become much loved wellbeing ambassadors across the force.

Exceptional Team Contribution to the Mini Police Scheme – Children and Young People Team (countywide)
Mini Police is a fun and interactive programme designed for children aged between nine and 11. It aims to build trust with communities, promote responsible citizenship and help young people establish an interest and understanding in policing and community safety.

Exceptional Individual Contribution to the Mini Police Scheme – PCSO Chris Baldwin (Three Rivers)

Cadet Achievement Award – Broxbourne and Cheshunt Cadets, and East Herts Cadets (joint winners)
The Volunteer Police Cadet programme is open to anyone aged between 13 and 18 who lives or goes to school in Hertfordshire. As well as learning about police procedures and the law, cadets have the opportunity to work alongside local officers and play a vital role in community events and social action projects, engaging with members of the public and educating them on crime prevention.
This award was presented to the cadets who had shown real dedication and community spirit at a particular event.

Cadet of the Year – Louis Tanak (Welwyn Hatfield Cadets)

Young Cadet Leader of the Year – Tom Beddoe (St Albans and Harpenden Cadets)
This award recognises a cadet who has made a successful transition into being a young leader and has made a valuable contribution to their unit.

Cadet Leader of the Year – PC Callum Ellis (Hertsmere)
This award recognises a cadet leader who has shown outstanding dedication and commitment to the development of their unit and been an inspirational role model.

Special Constabulary Student Officer of the Year – Special Constable Jon Tricker
This award recognises a Special student officer who has shown exceptional commitment and dedication throughout their training with the Special Constabulary (opens in a new window).

Volunteer of the Year – Sue Blackley

If you’d like to become a volunteer, or would like to find out more, please email the volunteers team.

More information about the Special Constabulary, including how to apply (opens in a new window).

If your employer registers with our Employer Supported Policing scheme, you could be eligible for paid or unpaid leave to carry out some of your Special duties. Find out more on the website or email ESP.