Two volunteers have been recognised at the Staffordshire Police annual awards for their tireless work and commitment during the pandemic, providing independent support for vulnerable adults in police custody.
Caroline Anderson, from Burton-on-Trent, and Carol Pearson, from Cannock, both received PFCC Awards for Volunteer of the Year for their roles as Appropriate Adults.
Between them, Caroline and Carol conducted visits to the custody facilities at Watling Street and Stoke-on-Trent, and provided support for over 200 voluntary interviews conducted at various police stations.
Caroline said: ‘I am incredibly grateful to have our efforts recognised and proud to fly the flag for all Appropriate Adults. Many of the adults I work with are sceptical about why they need an Appropriate Adult, but it’s always satisfying when someone says thank you, and you know you’ve made what is a difficult day for someone that bit easier. For me, it’s the people; the police officers I work with, the detainees I help, and the sheer variety of cases I deal with. It can be hard work but I love it.’
Carol said: ‘I freely give my time to support vulnerable adults through the interview procedure. I like to think I am making a positive influence to them. It was a surprise to have been nominated and then chosen for the Volunteer of the Year award. The amount of congratulations I have received makes me realise what I do is needed and gratefully appreciated.’
The PFCC Volunteer of the Year award recognises those who provide support in their own time to keep Staffordshire safe and reassured, highlighting outstanding service to our communities by volunteers who make a dedicated contribution.
If you are interested in volunteering to make a difference to your community, the Staffordshire Commissioner’s Office (SCO) is looking for new members of the Safer Neighbourhood Panel (SNP) and the Ethics, Transparency and Audit Panel (ETAP).
SNPs are made up of local residents who meet regularly with their area’s neighbourhood policing commander, holding them to account for policing in their communities. They analyse local crime and anti-social behaviour data and provide constructive challenge to neighbourhood policing teams.
Three roles are available within ETAP, which oversees the governance arrangements of the SCO, the police, and fire and rescue, acting as an Audit Committee for all three.
ETAP members will need to commit approximately three days spread over a month, with an allowance paid. Due to the nature of the role, we’d particularly like to attract qualified accountants with an interest in public service and community safety, and experience of working with senior management.
The deadline for ETAP applications is 7 May, with virtual interviews taking place via MS Teams from 17 May onwards.
Find out more information and how to apply.
