Sometimes, you have to really take a look at the decisions which are made about Policing, and think: ‘what the actual f__k is going on?’. This is one such decision that seems to defy any notion of logic or common sense.
Durham Constabulary, have decided that they are going to recruit volunteers, with no Police powers, to patrol the streets…
“Positive, public-spirited people” are apparently being sought for the new Police Community Support Volunteers (PCSVs) scheme run by the Durham Constabulary (UK).
The force said the new role will see successful volunteers ‘support’ frontline policing in neighbourhoods across County Durham, where they will be mentored by full time officers.
Well, that’s great, but don’t full time Police Officers have enough to do already, without having to train civilians in the complex fight against crime!?
‘PCSVs’ will take part in foot patrol, help solve basic crime enquiries, assist in local incidents and get to the heart of neighbourhood issues.
Inspector Kevin Tuck, from Durham Constabulary, said they will also support police during planned operations, local events and other initiatives, and will work with victims and witnesses where appropriate.
He continues: “This is a brand new volunteering role which will give ordinary people the chance to do something extraordinary in their communities,” he said. “We’re looking for positive, public-spirited people to volunteer in the heart of their local communities and build relationships with those who live and work there.
“This non-confrontational role is a great opportunity for people to give something back to their community, while making friends and developing life skills.”
Since when has putting yourself in the way of criminals & suspects EVER been “non-confrontational?”
I can see see the look on the faces of my former Police Officer colleagues, as they turn up to critical incidents, only to be joined by ‘Johnny-be-good’ in between his playing of Call of Duty at home on his computer.
Instead of asking people, with NO ADDITIONAL POWERS (other than those which can be found in common law) to put themselves on offer and to fill the gaps on the #ThinBlueLine, just actually spend money on Policing ? Or Maybe just recruit more Officers into the Special Constabulary!?
Written by Cop(ex). A former Metropolitan Police Officer of tens years’ service, who is also a regular contributor to our emergency services related satirical fortnightly digital magazine, S__ts & Giggles.
Sign up to this £1 / $1 per month humour and banter filled publication, by CLICKING HERE
Before you go...
We need your help. As former emergency services & armed forces personnel, we pride ourselves on bringing you important, fast-moving and breaking news stories which are free from the negative bias which is often directed at the emergency services by some sections of the mainstream media.
One of the reasons we started 'Emergency Services News' was because we became tired of reading badly informed stories about the emergency services which seemed only ever to highlight negative aspects of the job.
We want to be the unheard voice of the remarkable men and women who serve in the emergency services, NHS and armed forces. And with around 500k page views each month, we are getting there!
As income from ads, the mainstay source of income for most publishers, continues to decline; we need the help of our readers.
And remember, if you have a service, product or job vacancy that you would like to promote to our large readership, then you can buy advertising space in our articles.
You can support emergency services news from as little as £1. It only takes a minute. Every contribution, however big or small, is vital for our future.
Please help us to continue to highlight the life-saving work of the emergency services, NHS and armed forces by becoming a supporter.
Stupid idea, quite possibly, and as a former wearer of the green/white checker I’d say someone needs a good kicking for that alone!