PCC celebrates volunteers who support policing in Bedfordshire

To mark the National Volunteers Week, Police and Crime Commissioner, John Tizard has thanked the many volunteers who support the local police service.

Volunteer special police officers, street and speed watch volunteers, and many others contribute to making our county safer.

Volunteers also serve on the community scrutiny panels which contribute to holding the police to account including Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs), Independent Custody Detention Scrutiny Panel (ICDSP), Stop and Search, Use of Force and AI Ethics Panel.

As part of the week, he presented recognition awards to those volunteers who support his office to recognise the invaluable contribution these individuals make by giving their time to help keep Bedfordshire safe.

He was joined by Vice Lord-Lieutenant Professor Gurch Randhawa, who also commended the volunteers for their exceptional dedication to supporting their local community.

Each volunteer received a personalised certificate of thanks, signed by the PCC John Tizard in recognition of their dedication and public service.

John Tizard said:

“First and foremost, let me say loudly and very clearly “thank you” to the amazing volunteers who offer their time, energy and expertise to support both the police and more importantly their community.

“Volunteering makes a significant contribution and adds great value. This is no more so than in policing.

“It is always fantastic to meet the volunteers and to thank them personally. It is great that we are recognising the contribution of people who support and advise me and my team. Above all it is great to be able to thank everyone who voluntarily donate their time to help make our county safer.”

Everton Sutherland- -Adebiyi, Panel member on the Stop and Search and Use of Force Scrutiny Panel said:

 “The event today was one of the most brilliant events I have ever attended.

“It was filled with lived experience, a lot of learning, a lot of passion and you’ve got different perspectives in the room from different people who are giving up their time to support the community - it was really uplifting.

“I appreciated the speeches that were given by the Lord Lieutenant and Police and Crime Commissioner, it was a great privilege to meet them both. It was lovely to see everyone in one space, and I hope that we do more of this”.