VOLUNTEERS who support the work of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex have been celebrated at a special event.

The achievements of almost 60 volunteers who give their time as Restorative Justice, Independent Custody Visitors and Dog Welfare volunteers were highlighted at the Commissioner's annual Volunteers Appreciation Event which took place at the Essex Police Sports Association Pavilion in Chelmsford.

The volunteers had the chance to find out about different community safety initiatives, hear stories from people who have had their lives changed by taking part in restorative justice and were treated to a demonstration by the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service's Search and Rescue Dogs. The event was also an opportunity for the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner to recognise the achievements of the volunteers at a special awards ceremony.

Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said: "Our volunteers make a huge difference to the people of Essex. Our Restorative Justice volunteers have allowed our Restorative Justice and Mediation Service to grow, enabling victims and perpetrators of crime to achieve meaningful reparation, seeking to heal the harm caused by offending.

"Our Dog Welfare volunteers help to provide assurance that our police dogs are cared for in the best way possible which is crucial for both the police and the wider public and our Independent Custody Volunteers work closely with the Independent Custody Visiting Association and Essex Police custody staff to continuously improve the rights, dignity and welfare of those in police custody."

He added: "The importance of volunteering cannot be overestimated. On behalf of myself and the people of Essex, I want to say thank you to you all!"

Join the team:

If you want to make a real difference to community safety in Essex and learn some new skills, why not become one of the PFCC's volunteers? There are vacancies for Independent Custody Visitors and Restorative Justice volunteers.

Find out more about Independent Custody Visitors here and find out more about Restorative Justice volunteer roles via this link.

Awards Winners:

People's Choice

Restorative Justice – Laurie Posner

Independent Custody Visitor – Geoff Wright

Dog Welfare – Kay Abbey

Special Mention

Restorative Justice – Sam Reid

Testimonial: "The first special mention is for someone who worked extremely hard throughout the pandemic alongside a full-time job and family commitments, still managed to deliver high quality RJ for a large number of cases.

She has learnt fast and is always ready for the next challenge – often keeping us on our toes

RJ is very important to her, and she champions it in her professional, personal and volunteer lives."

Bob Hewes

Testimonial: "Demonstrates incredible patience and wisdom and is extremely dedicated to getting the best outcome for his cases, and the service. We consistently get positive feedback from his co-facilitators and professionals involved in his cases. He is always willing to help with a case and is a great asset to the team."

Dog Welfare – Linda Anthony

Testimonial: "This special person goes to someone who has a genuine passion for the dogs and ensuring their welfare needs are met. They recently helped brainstorm a new way of working for the welfare visits. They have an excellent rapport with the Dog Unit and are well respected by the rest of the team."

Independent Custody Visitor – Rich Wicks

Testimonial: "Where we would be without this person?! They go above and beyond what they are meant to, picking up so many extra visits recently and really carrying the weight of the scheme. Extremely knowledgeable about anything ICV and custody related and has a great working relationship with detention staff at Essex Police. So incredibly approachable and no task ever seems too big. They have adapted to recent staffing changes at the PFCC and has worked excellently with Sam and Carla since they took over management of the scheme. They are a genuine pleasure to be around!"

PFCC Volunteer of the Year – Veronica Sherry

Testimonial: "This award goes to someone who gives her time to volunteer for two services, ICV and RJ. She is dedicated, meticulous and proactive in both."

Five Years' Service Awards

Carole Chattey

Elizabeth Pickford

Emma Evans

Gary Knights

Lade Oshunremi

Laurie Posner

Pauline Emberson

Rich Wicks

Sandra Hull

Veronica Sherry