Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner praises invaluable work of volunteer special officers

Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw has recognised the ‘invaluable’ role that volunteer special police officers play.

He acknowledges how they keep people safe and supporting our communities and play an integral part during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Speaking during the force’s Special Constable Awards ceremony, which were held remotely due to the pandemic, the Commissioner thanked all the country’s special police officers who volunteer their time and work extremely closely with police officers, often on the front line.

During the last year, they have given over 60,000 hours to the organisation – the equivalent of 31 police officers across the 12 months.

Many have committed to additional time during the policing response to the pandemic to help Lancashire Constabulary deal with the additional pressures it has brought.

Support for Special Constables within the force includes access to wellbeing support, training, and the very latest equipment, just like our other officers and staff.

The Commissioner said: “Special Constables have always and continue to play a vital role in keeping the people of Lancashire safe, but have been invaluable during the pandemic response, often taking up new responsibilities and committing more time to the force during what is a challenging period for everyone.

“I am really pleased that we can recognise their contribution, even in small ways like this, because every one of them is a valued member of the policing family and we thank them for everything they do.

“We need to recognise the contribution of all volunteers who are helping to deliver vital services that are helping to keep vulnerable people safe and reassuring the wider community – thousands of people, across the county who are giving up their time to support others.”

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