Becoming a police service volunteer (PSV) offers the opportunity to do something worthwhile in your spare time, making a real difference to your local police force and community.
What you'll do
The roles performed by PSVs vary hugely within and between police forces. Subject to relevant vetting, you can assist with a wide variety of tasks.
Some of the duties carried out by PSVs include:
- manning police station front counters
- general administrative work
- Vehicle maintenance
- criminal investigation support
- updating victims and witnesses
- CCTV monitoring
- work relating to the professional skills you already have
There is no minimum hour requirement, but volunteer teams work with PSVs to ensure the role gives the maximum impact, and hours are discussed during the application process.
Skills needed
Each police force advertises roles for which they need voluntary support. If you have skills that you wish to offer the police, contact the force you are interested in to see how they can create a role to maximise the skills you have.
Many police forces welcome university students who are required to spend a year in industry, and can offer unique experiences in a range of business areas.
Eligibility
Anyone over the age of 16 can apply to be a PSV. Volunteers come from all walks of life, each bringing their own skills and specialisms.
All applicants must be vetted as they will be directly supporting officers and staff in their roles.
Ways to apply
Visit the recruitment section of the website of the police force you're interested in joining.