CENTRE PAGES NATIONAL VOLUNTEERS WEEK & SPECIALS WEEKEND - SUMMER 2021 | ISSUE 43 - DutySheet
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SUMMER 2021 | ISSUE 43
CENTRE PAGES
NATIONAL VOLUNTEERS WEEK
& SPECIALS WEEKEND
WELCOME
GLENN Constable 2183 Nigel Kettlewell
who received the award at the
crimes.
In 2017 Nigel joined the Rural
GOODMAN recent virtual award ceremony.
In March 2021, SC Nigel
Taskforce where he has continued
with his passion for supporting
TROPHY Kettlewell completed 23 years’
service with North Yorkshire
rural policing.
across England and Wales prepared to take these
WINNER 2021 Police, all of which has been
served in Ryedale.
Nigel is a keen cyclist and
participated in the first Tour de
risks and make these sacrifices is the biggest Aky in 2019 in memory of PC
motivator for me personally. In the Winter 2020 Nigel completed his probationary 1066 Mick Atkinson, raising
edition of Special Impact I mentioned a few pieces period in Malton and then moved awareness of mental health and
of work that are being undertaken under my to Sheriff Hutton, where he funds for chosen charities.
direction to bring about real positive changes for worked with the local beat officer
gathering intelligence that led Nigel is a credit to North
the Special Constabulary. I am pleased to report
to the arrests of persistent and Yorkshire Police and the Special
that good progress is being made in all of these
prolific poachers. Constabulary and his selfless
areas, with a key date being the enactment of
service to rural policing over
the Police, Courts and Sentencing Bill which will
Working in Easingwold he got the last 23 years is worthy of
hopefully take place early next year; having Special
involved with Farm Watch and recognition.
Constables represented by the Police Federation
Vale Watch and attended Parish
will not only help to raise the profile of the Special
meetings to update them on local
Constabulary, but will assist in broadening the
policing issues.
opportunities therein; opening the doors for national
interoperability and carriage of TASER for a In June 1992, Special Constable Over the years Nigel has
start. Good progress is also being made in terms Glenn Goodman was tragically developed initiatives aimed
I am pleased to be able to introduce this edition of standardising the role profiles of supervisory shot dead by an IRA gunman at tackling rural and cross-
of Special Impact which was edited just after officers, in improving training and in creating a while he was on duty in Tadcaster. border crime and in 2010 was
Volunteers’ Week and Specials’ Weekend, which I pathway between the Specials and the regulars. Each year, in honour of their son’s recognised nationally when he
hope that you all had the opportunity to partake in memory, Glenn’s parents award was announced as the runner
and that I hope demonstrated to a wider audience In my last foreword I produced some stats around the Glenn Goodman Trophy to an up at the Lord Ferrer’s Award
the importance of volunteering to the enrichment of the policing of COVID-19; I am very pleased to outstanding Special Constable. Ceremony for his work with
society as a whole. say that between March 2020 and April 2021, you
Operation Drystone which was
served a total of over 3.5 million hours nationally, The 2020 recipient is Special
Of course my view on Special Constables is going aimed at targeting ‘quality of life’
which is the equivalent of 1752 additional full-
to be slightly biased, being NPCC National Lead, time police officers. This is testimony to your
however I honestly believe that whilst all volunteers commitment and dedication and I would like to say a
deserve recognition, you are deserved of special heartfelt ‘thank you’ to you all for this.
SPECIAL CONSTABULARY NATIONAL GATHERING 2021
mention. I know that there will be times, perhaps
when stood in the driving rain on a cordon, or when I am genuinely proud to call you all colleagues and It’s not too late to book on this event: #SCGATHERING21
arresting a violent suspect, or when witnessing I am looking forward to continuing to support you as
something distressing and upsetting, you question we bring in some really significant changes. The Eventbrite booking link is here:
your involvement in this organisation; this is, of www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/national-special-constabulary-gathering-2021-
course, only natural, but it is precisely this which Take care and stay safe, as always. tickets-147843107715
sets you apart from most other volunteers – despite
the risks and personal sacrifices you don the DCC Richard Debicki
uniform, week in, week out, to make a contribution NPCC National Special Constabulary Lead
to your community and to help others in genuine
need.
The fact that there are nearly ten thousand of you
Special Impact is supported by Citizens
in Policing practitioners, volunteers and FRONT PAGE:
stakeholders. Thanks goes to Graham FOLLOW US ON
CHESHIRE SPECIAL
Holmes for supporting artwork and TWITTER
design. To submit an article or give CONSTABULARY - SPECIALS
@SCIMPACTMAG
feedback please contact: WEEKEND
tina.shelton@gmp.police.uk
2 SPECIAL IMPACT ISSUE 43 ISSUE 43 SPECIAL IMPACT 3
CITY OF LONDON
SPECIAL
CONSTABULARY
Public Order duties are a large part of the
mandatory duty calendar for the City of London City of London Special Constabulary officers with high harm offenders. Using proactive tactics, ANPR
Special Constabulary. All officers are routinely regular City of London, Metropolitan and BTP and Tactical Pursuit and Containment (TPAC)
trained in Level 3 tactics and a significant number Public Order Officers face confrontation from violent resources to focus on areas identified by intelligence
volunteer for Level 2 public order training to deploy demonstrators in Parliament Square in the summer. as being frequented by offenders. The Operation
with their regular colleagues for demonstrations, recovered three firearms, large numbers of bladed
football, and other events. Despite the cancellation For some time City of London Special Constabulary weapons, and large quantities of cash and drugs.
of annual events such as the London Marathon, (CLSC) officers have been embedded within the Led by a Special Sergeant with three additional
Remembrance Sunday and Lord Mayor’s Show, City of London Police Roads Crime Team. The Special Constables, the Unit builds on close and
2020 still provided significant opportunities team have been deployed across London under excellent relationships with regular colleagues, has
a tri-force umbrella with BTP, Metropolitan Police broadened the knowledge and experience of City
THE City of London Police became the first Force and City of London Police assets. This unit was Specials, and given further capability to CLSC’s
to send two Special Supervisors to Gravesend set up to disrupt the use of the road network by offering of support to City of London Police.
Metropolitan Police Specialist Training Centre
(MPSTC) to undertake the nationally certified Public
Support Unit (PSU) Commander’s Course. This
course enables them to command sections and
serials of Level 2 and Level 3 public order officers
40 YEARS SERVICE
on operations in force and on mutual aid. Chief Public Order deployments of Special Constables Huge congratulations to Special Superintendent
Officer James Phipson stated “We believe that this have included the Extinction Rebellion, Black Lives Phil Nastri who serves in the City of London Special
is a national first. It shows the Force’s commitment Matter and Extreme right-wing protests (pictured
to its Special Constabulary and we are currently Constabulary.
below), alongside high risk unlicensed music events
on target to be able to deploy 15 Level 2 Public including the Notting Hill Carnival weekend. Each Phil has reached the massive milestone of 40 years as
Order trained officers including two Commanders to event saw Specials facing extreme provocation
support Public Order Operations within the Force in a Special Constable. Originally joining the Metropolitan
and violence, and their professionalism was noted
2021 alongside a fully-staffed Level 3 PSU.” Police Special Constabulary, Phil served in many Boroughs
by their regular Public Order Bronze Commander
who wrote to them personally to thank them for and was often seen commanding Special Constables at
Special Inspector John O’Clee (pictured across) the Notting Hill Carnival and various football events, rising
their good work. True recognition of their skills and
said : “Attending the Level 2 PSU Commanders
ability was further cemented when a City of London to the rank of Assistant Chief Officer. Phil joined “The
Course was a fantastic opportunity and enables
me to deploy as a Level 2 Public Order supervisor
Special Officer was deployed on a 2-day protest City” just over 3 years ago and now leads the Uniform
operation as a Level 2 Sergeant commanding Policing Directorate.
confidently. It’s wonderful to have such faith placed
regular and Special Constabulary Public Order
in us by our regular colleagues in the City- a real
partnership.”
Officers. Well done Phil and thank you for your impressive service.
4 SPECIAL IMPACT ISSUE 43 ISSUE 43 SPECIAL IMPACT 5
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TRAVELSAFE PARTNERSHIP – COVID-19
ENFORCEMENT DUTIES
Earlier this year, Specials Constables from fraudulent use.
Merseyside Police and British Transport Police
joined PCSO colleagues from the Merseyside Police Chief Inspector Peter Clark of Merseyside Police
and British Transport Police as well as Stagecoach said: “Officers engaged with more than 1,000 bus
Buses for a joint operation. The aim was to make passengers throughout the day and it was pleasing
sure that members of the public are keeping each to see that 97 per cent of passengers on the buses
other safe and adhering to restrictions in place to were doing the right thing to keep themselves and
prevent the spread of Coronavirus. others safe.”
Special Inspector Kai Lindsay of Merseyside Police The team were joined in the afternoon by Assistant
said: “This was a great opportunity to work with Chief Constable Critchley who assisted officers with
colleagues from British Transport Police and support Covid checks on board the busses and thanked
the Travel Safe Partnership in ensuring travel on the officers for their support during the operation.
network remains safe and Covid-19 restrictions are
being adhered to.”
The Operation was conducted on London Road
in Liverpool City Centre, a main arterial bus route
connecting the city. During the operation 319 buses
were checked and officers were able to speak to
more than 1,000 passengers. Only 54 were not
wearing facemasks and of them 27 were medically
exempt from having to wear a mask.
In addition to this ten people were removed from the
buses for non-essential travel, eight ticket frauds
were detected and one bus pass was seized due to
6 SPECIAL IMPACT ISSUE 43
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AVON AND SOMERSET This meant that they were able to demonstrate
their competence and commitment in supporting
SPECIALS ASSIST their regular colleagues on the front line. Equally
important was the contribution of many other
WITH VIOLENT Special Constables filling the resource gaps across
the Districts responding to local demands.
DISORDER Special Sergeant Louis Young has passed his
Shaun (pictured right) has been a Special
Constable for the last 4 years and in the last
In Bristol on Sunday 21st March 2021 a protest portfolio and is now on permanent secondment to year alone he has supported the force and the
against the new Police, Crime, Sentencing and the Roads Policing Team. He was presented with a communities of Merseyside by working more
Court Bill turned violent. The Bridewell Police certificate and his white cap by Supt Mark Wiggins. than 900 hours in his Specials role. During the
Station in the centre of the city was attacked, with Coronavirus Pandemic Shaun negotiated his
Louis said: “I feel immensely proud of working within
windows smashed, police vehicles set alight and abstraction from his day job as a business analyst
Roads Policing in Merseyside Police; it’s a strand
officers assaulted. Off-duty officers, including with the Force and led efforts to secure additional
of policing which I have always aspired to be a part
Special Constables, were called up for assistance support from the Specials that amounted to the
of and there were certainly hurdles that had to be
and mutual aid was provided from other forces. equivalent of 35 regular officers. Responding
jumped in order to get there and I’m certain there
will be more to tackle ahead. But it’s so refreshing to force intelligence, Shaun identified a specific
Several more protests took place over the next two
to have a supportive command team of both regular requirement for high visibility patrols to business
weeks with thousands taking part. Some of these
and special supervisors who are willing to push premises that had been left vulnerable due to
also became violent, with bricks, glass bottles, traffic
things further in the right direction. their closure during the lockdown. During these
cones and fireworks thrown at officers, dogs and
initial three months of lockdown he was able to
horses.
Merseyside Police is I think a very “traditional deploy a proactive team every night to provide
Avon and Somerset Specials have been trained and force” so allowing Specials to now start to work proactive patrols at retail and business parks across
equipped to the Public Order independently and as part of such a specialist team Merseyside. As a result the opportunity for criminals
CMS (Common Minimum is certainly a huge jump in the right direction and we to exploit lockdown and commit commercial
Standard) Level 2. There are can only really go upwards from here. burglaries were successfully mitigated by these
currently fourteen volunteer patrols.
I’d encourage anyone with a genuine interest in
officers qualified at this level,
Roads Policing who has a passion for it to give it a Shaun is the epitome of the “One Team” ethos and
with two of them bringing skills
go! It’s one of the most rewarding and challenging has been described as someone who responds to
from their paid work to also act
roles a police officer can do and no shift is ever the calls for assistance no matter what time of the night
as Tactical Medics.
same.” or day.
8 SPECIAL IMPACT ISSUE 43 ISSUE 43 SPECIAL IMPACT 9
All have been so incredibly supportive and proud of
my role. My mum definitely worries about me when
out on duty so I always have to message when I
get home safely but I don’t mind as that’s her job to
worry about me. My Grandad is so supportive; he
does not understand why I haven’t joined full time!
WOULD YOU RECOMMEND THIS
VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITY TO OTHERS?
Similar to teaching, policing requires a love for the
role. It’s a difficult job. If you have a love for helping
others and not afraid to work hard I would absolutely
recommend to others.
Lauren Whitworth is a Special Constable with We asked Lauren more about her role as a Special
Greater Manchester Police. However, Monday to Constable:
Friday Lauren takes on the role as Head of Math
at Altrincham College (11-18yr Secondary School). WHY DID YOU JOIN THE SPECIAL
She started her career here in 2010 and worked her CONSTABULARY?
way up to leading the Department 5 years ago. She well as a neighbourhood team or Special Operations
I joined the GMP Special Constabulary in 2019
is now responsible for the progress of all pupils at the diversity of options means that there is usually
after my mum suggested it would be an interesting
the school in Mathematics, curriculum development always something that I can pitch in on. The
challenge. I have never looked back since. It has
in the subject and managing the rest of the Maths College has also been really supportive throughout
many transferrable skills to teaching. The pupils
team. Covid, allowing me to juggle some of my teaching
enjoy talking to me about my role and what sort of
hours which has enabled me to undertake over 1150
The past year has been an extremely challenging things police officer does. I am hoping that this will
hours of volunteering since March last year.
time in education but Lauren is thankful of a educate and inspire some of my pupils to consider
supportive team and senior leadership at the a career in policing or even the opportunity of WHAT SKILLS DO YOU THINK THAT YOU BRING
College who have allowed her to both ensure becoming a Special Constable. It was not a role I FROM THE SPECIAL CONSTABULARY INTO
learning continued as well as contributing additional myself was aware of at school, had I known I think I YOUR PAID WORK ROLE?
hours in the Special Constabulary. would have joined much sooner.
Patience!! As a teacher we have to be incredibly
The College were presented with the Employer WHAT ARE THE BEST BITS ABOUT BEING A patient and calm when dealing with pupils that need
Supported Policing Covid Support Certificate of SPECIAL CONSTABLE? to de-escalate and I feel like this has been the most
Appreciation during National Volunteers Week, and transferable skill that I develop across both roles.
The bit about being a Special I enjoy most is the
Head Teacher, Kim Earle, says: “I’m very happy to Developing positive relationships is key to dealing
diversity of jobs you go to during a duty. Talking to
support this role for Lauren. We have given her a with the pupils and the public. Albeit when on duty
the public and being a support to both the public and
small amount of time out of school for training and in these positive relationships need to develop much
my colleagues is also a great part of the policing
return she has shared aspects of her voluntary role quicker to ensure a situation can be managed
role.
as a Special in informal chats about careers with calmly. Both roles require clear communication
students. She has also offered to do specific work HOW DO YOU BALANCE YOUR WORK/SOCIAL at the heart of the roles, to be able to listen,
with students using the new skills she has learned LIFE WITH YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES OF BEING understand and respond appropriately.
with the Police. I think that the role of teacher and A SPECIAL CONSTABLE?
Special Constable has many compatible aspects, WHAT WAS THE REACTION OF YOUR FRIENDS
with one role bolstering the other to great effect! We Most of my duties are completed at the weekend AND FAMILY WHEN YOU DECIDED TO JOIN THE
are very proud of how she gives her time so freely or during school holidays so I find it easy to plan SPECIAL CONSTABULARY AND VOLUNTEER
for such great work – as Head of Maths there isn’t a ahead and know when I can contribute hours. By TO UNDERTAKE FRONT LINE POLICING?
lot of spare time, but she finds it!” undertaking hours on a regular response team as
10 SPECIAL IMPACT ISSUE 43 ISSUE 43 SPECIAL IMPACT 11
NATIONAL SPECIALS WEEKEND GALLERY
NORFOLK SPECIAL diversity and equality.
“They say policing is a role like no other, and that
CHIEF OFFICER is true, no two shifts are the same, plus on a more
personal front, I have made friends for life and Essex Volunteer Police
AWARDED MBE gained some invaluable skills. While policing can be
tough at times, it’s so rewarding to make a tangible
Officers have been honoured
with The Queen’s Award
difference to others and I would highly recommend for Voluntary Service, the
it both as a ‘career’ special and an insight in to the highest award a voluntary
role of a regular officer. I’m very proud of everyone group can receive in the UK.
in the Norfolk Police family who do an excellent job And the award includes a ‘special designation’
serving our communities. The skills and dedication for providing impactful support during the early
of the combined team makes such a difference.” months of the Pandemic.
During the last year’s lockdown, between
Norfolk Constabulary’s Deputy Chief Constable March and June, Essex Special Constabulary
The Head of Norfolk’s Special Constabulary has Paul Sanford said: “This Award is truly deserved. volunteered over 54,000 operational hours,
been rewarded for more than 22 years commitment Darren has served the Special Constabulary for providing visible policing and helping communities
to the force after receiving an MBE in the Queen’s so many years and is a fine example to all those during unprecedented times. And in the year
Birthday Honours. who devote their time and energy in supporting to 31 May 2021, they volunteered a total of
regular officers in meeting the policing needs of the 207,552 hours to help to police Essex. That’s an
Special Chief Officer Darren Taylor joined the ranks community. I would like to congratulate him on the average of 17,300 hours a month.
of the Special Constabulary at the age of 24 and award and hope it serves as an encouragement for Superintendent Shaun Kane, head of Essex
22 years on he still dons the uniform to serve his anyone considering joining the ranks of the Special Police Special Constabulary, says the recognition
community, while working full time managing a Constabulary which is an extremely rewarding role.” is inspiring and that there is ‘an overwhelming
range of change programmes for a regional news sense of gratitude’ which is a reflection of the
and magazine publisher. pride felt by each and every officer.
Norfolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner Giles
Orpen-Smellie has offered his congratulations to Supt Kane says:
Mr Taylor for the award, which has been given Specials Deputy Chief Officer Derek Hopkins “It’s meant the world to be
in recognition of Services to Policing and the has been a Special for 41 years and he is recognised in this way; to know
Community of Norfolk. delighted at the news. “It’s a recognition of the that the support provided by
Commenting on receiving the prestigious accolade, tremendous voluntary service that our Special our Specials has positively and
Darren said: “It’s an absolute honour, and very Constables continuously provide. They enjoy tangibly contributed to policing
humbling to be recognised for something that I enjoy helping to make our communities safer and and people’s lives. Essex is one
doing and get so much out of. better and this award is an accolade for all the
of the fastest-growing Special
“My experience in the Special Constabulary
amazing work they do, day in and day out,” he
says. Constabularies in the country,
wouldn’t be what it is without all my colleagues, both
volunteers and regulars, who do an excellent job
which is pushing the boundaries of
serving the communities of Norfolk.”
“Essex Police Special Constabulary is always inclusivity within the police service
here and officers are always wanting to do and consistently demonstrating
Darren started his career in Norwich, serving as a more. Several of them have supported the
Special Constable then as a Special Sergeant. He our values in community-based
G7 Summit recently. When the Pandemic
served communities in the city for more than 10 hit, it was an opportunity for our volunteers
policing. To receive The Queen’s
years before various postings on promotion across
to do even more and those who had been Award for Voluntary Service is a
Broadland and South Norfolk. He later took on the
furloughed or made redundant looked to carry fantastic acknowledgement and
role of Special Superintendent and moved into the
role of Deputy Chief Officer, before being made out extra duties, performing vital and useful achievement which also reflects the
Chief Officer three years ago. roles for the force as well as protecting and positive culture within our force. It’s
serving the people of Essex.” an absolute privilege and I’d like to
He added: “I’ve enjoyed every moment of it and
can’t believe where the time has gone, there thank everyone who helped make
has been so many highlights which alongside this award possible.”
operational policing included work within the
community and police service supporting the
LGBT+ community and inclusion across all areas of
14 SPECIAL IMPACT ISSUE 43 ISSUE 43 SPECIAL IMPACT 15
JAM-PACKED
WEEKEND FOR
CAMBRIDGESHIRE’S
SPECIAL
CONSTABULARY
Cambridgeshire Specials did just that by dedicating
their spare time to targeting speeding and other
traffic offences; they clocked up 155 hours of
shifts and caught motorist committing dozens of
road offences. The Volunteers of the Community Devon and Cornwall Special Constables had a very officer praising the work of Temporary Special
Speedwatch team also contributed 19 hours. busy few months in the run up to the G7 Summit Sergeant Jason Payne and SC Amanda Webb who
supporting their frontline colleagues and helping out worked tirelessly during a shift in Newquay (East
Specials covered Peterborough and surrounding in all areas of business across the peninsular. Many Cornwall) and stayed on to help out well after their
areas, Alconbury, Ely, and Buckden, and found: volunteered additional shifts in different areas of the finish time. The officers were described as role
Force and have took annual leave and Employer models for the Special Constabulary who were
• 16 drivers speeding Supported Policing (ESP) days to help out during professional and a great asset to the force.
this extraordinary event. This includes assisting at
• Seven drivers and/or passengers not wearing a Great work by Special Inspector Dave Wooding and
the Welcome Centres for arriving officers, driving
seatbelt SC Adam Bush who during a speed enforcement
officers to their destinations, running custody vans
to free up officers, reassurance patrols as well as operation on Dartmoor, stopped a vehicle smelling
• One driver using their mobile phone behind the
the business as usual front line policing. of cannabis. The driver failed to stop and collided
wheel
with other vehicles. The officers managed to detain
• Two drivers failing to stop at a red light During Volunteers Week, which also included and arrest the male. Four Roads Policing Special
National Specials Weekend, a number of events Constables joined the team.
• One person driving without due care and took place to promote the work that they do. Over
attention 30 Special Constable booked on across the Force A further 42 Devon and Cornwall Specials took part
on the Bank Holiday Weekend. in Level 3 Public Support Unit (PSU) on a very cold
• One person driving without reasonable and wet rainy day in Okehampton (West Devon).
consideration to others Specials assisted the Rural Affairs Team and There are now 100 officers trained to this level.
Cambridgeshire’s Special Constabulary were out in
partnership patrols and clocked up 62 hours
force during this year’s National Specials Weekend. • One uninsured driver of duties carrying out enforcement and crime
They clocked up 155 hours of shifts and caught
prevention initiatives over the bank holiday weekend
motorist committing dozens of road offences. • One person driving without a valid licence on the moors.
The aim of the weekend is to showcase the vital Special Sergeant Mudie, who joined in with the South Devon Specials used their social media
support Specials provide to regular officers and 17 weekend, said: “Specials Weekend is a great platform to showcase their work. Specials filmed
way to showcase the different ways our Specials a virtual ride along to show some of the work they
dedicate their time to help keep Cambridgeshire do during a shift. They have also been successfully
safe. As a force, we have so many great volunteers running a custody van which has proved very
who provide support to regular officers on a daily popular with their response colleagues and have so
basis. Our Specials have continued to demonstrate far transported over 100 prisoners to custody!
amazing commitment and dedication especially
during these challenging times, and they bring a A letter of thanks was received from a response
wealth of knowledge and skills to the force that
make a big contribution to how we police and
support people.”
“Specials Weekend gives us an opportunity to
recognise and give thanks to our Specials for their
on-going selfless contribution.”
16 SPECIAL IMPACT ISSUE 43 ISSUE 43 SPECIAL IMPACT 17
doing something interesting and useful. I have
definitely used my medical training in my role as a
Special Sergeant on a regular basis. I recently was
NORTHUMBRIA won by Kate Wallace, a former
Cadet turned Special Constable,
first on the scene before the ambulance arrived CITIZENS IN who continues to display
enthusiasm, commitment and
at a rural incident and another incident where a
woman had fallen from a height. Both times I could POLICING dedication in her role.
National Volunteers Week provides the opportunity use the precious first few minutes to get the patient
comfortable and carry out basic first aid which saved
AWARDS 2021 Finally Adam Humphries, Glenn
Irving, Sophie Nash and Daryl
to recognise and thank Lancashire Police amazing
time for when the Paramedics arrived.” On Thursday 27 May – ahead Wood all achieved so much this
volunteer network - from Special Constables to
of National Volunteers’ Week year that they shared the top spot
Cybercrime Intelligence Officers, there are more By day you’ll catch Postie Gaz delivering your latest for Special Constable Award.
– Northumbria Police (NP)
than 1000 volunteers helping to keep Lancashire online shopping haul, but by night he’s serving the launched a new celebration event
safe! people of Lancashire as Special Constable Gareth! to celebrate their volunteers. Well done to everyone who was
nominated for an award and huge Special Constable
Gaz has volunteered his time in East Lancashire The very first Citizens in Policing congratulations to all the winners. Glen Irving
for the past two years and even manages to use Awards were hosted virtually
by the Force’s Chief Constable SPECIAL CONSTABULARY
the skills acquired through police training when AWARD WINNERS 2021
Winton Keenen and Director of
donning his red jacket! He recently assisted with a People, Joscelin Lawson.
domestic assault whilst on his delivery round and
has intercepted drugs packages through the postal This past year has been a
network, something he says he perhaps wouldn’t challenge for so many and the
have necessarily spotted if he wasn’t a special in his work volunteers do at Team NP
spare time. He said: “I’ve always wanted to work in has been crucial in supporting
their colleagues and the Special Constable
the Police and I love volunteering as a Special. I’ve Sophie Nash
been involved in drugs raids and football matches communities they all serve.
and in the last year I have been heavily involved The event was a fantastic
in the Covid response, which has been a really
SPECIAL CONSTABLE
opportunity to honour and DARYL WOOD
interesting experience. I just like helping people. I celebrate the very worthy
love going home knowing I’ve done something good volunteers for the amazing work
that day and I actually get that feeling whichever they do all year round.
uniform I’m wearing.”
Chief Superintendent Sarah
Pitt who leads on volunteering
for Team NP said: “I was blown
away with the contribution that
our volunteers make to policing
our communities in Northumbria. Special Constable Josh Michie
The nominations were truly
inspirational and brought a tear
to my eye. I am so proud of our SPECIAL CONSTABLE
amazing volunteers.” KATE WALLACE
Katie is an absolute champion for blue light Those taking home a trophy
services and when she isn’t wearing her Lancashire included the Newcastle Street
Pastors for their work protecting OUTSTANDING
Constabulary uniform she is dressed in her LEADERSHIP
the vulnerable, Alan Edwards for
paramedic greens.
his efforts to tackle rural crime
and a number of Cadets for their ETAL LANE SPECIAL
As a Student Paramedic for The University of CONSTABULARY AND
amazing contributions to policing.
Central Lancashire - UCLan and an Urgent Care SPECIAL CONSTABLE
Assistant for North West Ambulance Service she’s Other winners included the NEIL PATTON The Force also
dedicated her spare time over the past three Victims First Team for their celebrated Volunteers who had
years to also serving the people of Lancashire ongoing support for victims of contributed 200 hours or more
as a Special Sergeant. Katie says she ‘doesn’t crime, NHS worker and Special over the last year – a special well
really do free time’ – and we’re not surprised! As Constable Josh Michie and the done to those recognised for their
a duel emergency service worker, she’s had more RNLI and Julie Judson for their efforts and dedication.
than enough work to keep her busy these past 12 partnership work.
Special Constable
months! The first Shining Star Award was Adam Humphries
Katie says: “I like to make the most of my life with
18 SPECIAL IMPACT ISSUE 43 ISSUE 43 SPECIAL IMPACT 19made to sell the land for housing. our Roads Policing Unit. The
In 2019 preparations started weather, during the week leading
for the demolition. This would up to the event, had been sunny
be completed in ten controlled with clear blue skies. This could
demolitions, culminating in the work to our advantage in keeping
collapse of the four 117mtr high people away from the site, as
cooling towers. there were better vantage points
further out. Unfortunately we had
At the start of 2019 I was a wet morning with low cloud
approached by the demolition cover which attracted the 2000
company and requested to or so people nearer to the event
provide a police presence at location.
each of the demolitions. Each
of the first eight demolitions had The time had come. The button
exclusion zones which were was pushed and the towers
within the Power Station site. I folded eloquently into their own
and SC Burton were present at footprint in the space of ten
each, to deal with any breaches seconds. A good event was had
of these zones. by all.”
In June 2021 the four remaining
cooling towers were due to be
demolished. The Cooling Towers
had been an iconic vision of
Rugeley since 1970, and to many
were a landmark indicating that
they were nearly home from their
travels. This event was going to
Staffordshire Special Constabulary were very
busy during National Volunteers week and more SATURDAY 5TH JUNE SUNDAY 6TH attract a large crowd of onlookers,
and plenty of Social Media
specifically National Specials Weekend as they had
two major Special Constabulary led operations that 2021 – OPERATION JUNE 2021 interest. We could not gauge how
many we were likely to see but
took place.
LIGHTENING – RUGELEY the demolition company made
us aware that ‘Blowdowns’ of
POWER
Special Inspector Suzanne Green led the very first
this type have a huge following
SC County wide operation on Saturday 5th June;
from around the country. We
STATION
it was a really positive event with great results.
were still in Step 3 of Covid which
The Operation focused on traffic and road safety,
was going to present its own
including having check points set up where Officers
were using speed lasers to educate members of the DEMOLITION challenges in itself with Social
Distancing still a priority.
public on speed limits and the risks concerned with
speeding. Special Inspector Suzanne Green had the The Special Constabulary also
A month of complex planning
below to say about the operation: led Operation Blowdown on
commenced between myself
Sunday 6th June, which saw
and the demolition company.
“The Special Constabulary traffic operation was an the Rugeley Power Stations first
Across the road from the Power
absolute success especially as this is the first time commissioned in 1961 and 1970
Station complex, was an Amazon
we have run it force wide across the North, South be demolished.
Distribution site. This had to be
East and South West. I have received so much
Special Sergeant Lee said: evacuated for the duration of the
positive feedback from all ranks involved and also
“Rugeley Power Station was a event. They obliged by arranging
our regular colleagues.”
series of two coal fired Power their site maintenance to coincide
During this Operation the team complete 255 Stations located in Staffordshire. with the operation.
vehicles checks, 4 vehicles seized for no insurance Rugeley ‘A’ was commissioned
Although there were no specific
and 7 reported for mobile offense and 22 for no in 1961 with the ‘B’ station
viewing areas, this event was
seatbelt. They also conducted at numerous points commissioned in 1970. Both
likely to attract the viewing public.
speed laser operations with an opportunity to stations had cooling towers. In
On the day I had the assistance
educate some members of the public about their 2016 the ‘B’ station ceased all its
of ten Special Constables and
speed and the impact this could have. operations and the decision was
20 SPECIAL IMPACT ISSUE 43 ISSUE 43 SPECIAL IMPACT 21understand the demands of my Pandemic. a trainer within the Ministry of
role as a Special and support Defence Police six years ago.
me.” Special Inspector David Howse
first joined Suffolk Constabulary Chief Constable Steve Jupp
Karen Buttress, Community as a Special Constable in 2009, said: “I would like to congratulate
Safety Lead Officer for volunteering within Haverhill and Special Inspector David Howse
Chelmsford City Council, says: Bury Rural South. on his British Empire Medal for
“Having Nikki in post as a voluntary service to policing.
Community Safety Officer has However, with the Pandemic David’s commitment and innovate
had massive benefits for the allowing him to carry out his day approach to voluntary public
Council. She’s learnt many skills job from home, he joined Haverhill service is second to none. He is
through her police training which Neighbourhood Response Team a proven leader and consistently
she is able to incorporate into her (NR) Team 5 on the weekly shift- manages to work a staggering
role within the Council. I believe pattern. average of 70 voluntary hours
that the policing role has given per month, despite having a full-
His efforts both before and
Nikki the confidence in settling time role with the MOD Police.
during the Pandemic, and what
into her role at the council very This recognition for David’s
he described as the ridiculous
well. The relationship between the outstanding work is thoroughly
NIKKI IS Chelmsford City Council and in
her other life with Essex Police. Community Safety Partnership
and Essex Police has always
number of hours he regularly
offers as a volunteer officer, have
deserved.”
SPECIAL BY “As part of the Safer Chelmsford
Partnership, the Council works been key and this opportunity
enhances that.
been recognised with the Honour. His children have since moved
out of the home but David has
DAY AND A very closely with Essex Police “I was very surprised and feel
continued as a Special, saying
teams, including the community very humbled,” he said. “I don’t
“The training that Nikki has it provides him with important
SPECIAL BY
policing team, in dealing with anti- do this for any other reason than
received from both Essex Police experiences that he can use
social behaviour and community to give a bit back and to help. If
and Chelmsford City Council to help when tutoring student
safety issues. By dealing with someone gives you a thank you
NIGHT members of the public in both
has been interchangeable
then that’s a bonus. We are quite
officers.
Special Constable Nikki, is a
my day job and my Special
role, I gain valuable insight into
and enhanced both roles. It is
important for the city council to SUFFOLK good in Suffolk in saying thank
you to each other.
During his time as a Special
he has diversified his policing
SPECIAL
Community Safety Officer for see our employees develop and
trends and intelligence, such as experience, leading the county’s
Chelmsford City Council by enhance their skills in areas they “What’s happened to me is just
engaging with rough sleepers and first Special Scorpion unit, as well
enjoy, and flourish.”
day and as part of National
Volunteers’ Week and National
focusing on anti-social behaviour
hotspots, and develop close Nikki says: “The support from
CONSTABLE huge and I’m not sure I deserve
it. There’re only around 1,200
as leading licensing in Haverhill,
falling back on his experiences
Specials Weekend, Nikki took
one of her council bosses on
working and trusting relationships
with both Chelmsford City Council
regular officers is amazing.
You’ll make some great friends
AWARDED Honours given so there’s an
element of guilt. So many people
within the alcohol industry - a tale
of poacher turned gamekeeper.
shift with her so they could see
the work she does as a Special
and Essex Police. along the way and you’ll get to
experience things members of the
BRITISH have given so much during Covid
so there are mixed emotions.” He said during his time in the
Constable.
Nikki says she wanted to become
public generally don’t. EMPIRE Special Inspector Howse said
he was only half-joking when
Force he had experienced
many outstanding moments,
a Special to give victims of crime
a positive experience and ensure
“You’ll also gain new skills,
whether it’s assertiveness, MEDAL IN saying he joined the Special
Constabulary to get out of the
highlighting an incident in which
he was awarded a Merit Award
they have a positive perception
of the police. “Knowing that I can
dealing with difficult situations
or calming down and providing NEW YEAR house as he was cramping his
children’s style.
for calming and disarming a man
who was in possession of three
make a difference to someone’s
life and keep victims safe at night
support to vulnerable members of
the public. HONOURS The single-parent of two had
knives.
He added: “In policing you have
is a very rewarding feeling,” she
says.
“I feel proud to be a Special
Constable and my only regret is
LIST previously considered joining
the Police when living in Kent
outstanding moments every time
you go out.”
“I feel very supported by the
A Suffolk Special Inspector who but instead went on to have a
City Council. Booking time off is not doing it sooner.”
And she says volunteering has averages 70 hours of voluntary successful career within the wine
very easy and my bosses fully
benefited her, both in her role with service a month has been industry.
awarded a British Empire Medal
He joined the Special
in the The New Year Honours
Constabulary at a similar time to
list for his contribution to policing
leaving the industry, first working
which includes joining forces to
within the Department for Work
work full-time with his regular
and Pensions, before becoming
colleagues during the Covid-19
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