Leicestershire Police thanks volunteers on International Volunteer Day

Leicestershire Police thanks the hundreds of people who selflessly give up their time to volunteer as special constables, police cadets, chaplains and support volunteers on International Volunteers Day 2021 (Sunday 5 December).

The day recognises and promotes the tireless work of volunteers across the globe, and this year the theme is ‘Volunteer now for our common future’.

Assistant Chief Constable Julia Debenham says: “More than 650 people volunteer their time to support Leicestershire Police as special constables, police cadets, support volunteers and police chaplains. We’re very grateful for their support every day of the year and International Volunteer Day provides an opportunity for us to raise awareness of the important contribution they make to policing in their communities.”

This year, Leicestershire Police has focused on creating new community-based volunteer roles and increasing the specialist training and skills available to special constables. The force has also welcomed the highest number of police cadets, following the opening of its' ninth cadet unit, based on the St Matthews Estate in Leicester.

Superintendent Adam Slonecki, the force’s lead for volunteering, says it’s important to recognise volunteers as an important part of creating a more equal and inclusive future for our communities.

He said: “Our volunteers play a crucial role in building bridges and enabling communities to shape and support their police force, which in turn enables policing to play an enhanced role in changing lives and providing inspiration for the future. I’m so proud of our volunteers and what we can achieve when we work together.”

Special Constable Ada Unigwe signed up to volunteer to break down barriers between her community and the police.

She said: “I noticed a lack of trust for the police in my community and I thought the best way to change it would be to sign up myself and actively build bridges while also protecting people from harm.

“I want people to see me out there doing a great job, and know that they can do it too. The future I am trying to create is one where people to respect the police, not because of the uniform we wear but because of the job we do. Volunteering for Leicestershire Police has definitely changed my life for the better and it could change yours too.”

Leicestershire Police is currently accepting applications for special constables. For more information on volunteering and to sign up, please visit www.leics.police.uk/couldyou.