Plymouth police appeal for volunteer drivers

Police in Plymouth are on the lookout for volunteer drivers to join an existing scheme which frees up officers to be on the streets when they are needed.

Police Volunteer drivers provide invaluable help to operational officers on routine business.

They drive them in and around the city to community meetings, to other police stations, and on a wide range of other matters. Most journeys are shared with other staff and mean it is quick and efficient and avoids car parking issues and costs.

But two current volunteers are leaving after many years service and new volunteers are needed to fill the gap.They would neeed to be able to do shifts of between 2 and 4 hours Monday to Friday, 8.00am to 6.00pm. 

An Induction would include a Driving Assessment, a tour of the locations of Police and partner premises in the Plymouth area, and training for a breakdown or accident.Volunteer drivers must be over 17, hold a full driving licence, must pass the strict vetting clearance and relevant driving assessments.

Police volunteers are not replacing roles within Devon & Cornwall Police but add value and provide a more accesible and cost effective police service.  They do not wear a uniform.

A Police Volunteer is defined as: “An individual who, by choice, puts their time, experience, knowledge and skills at the disposal of the Force without expectation of compensation or financial reward, except for the payment of pre-determined out of pocket expenses”.

If you are interested in becoming a Police Volunteer Driver, please contact Sgt Rachel Ward at Rachel.ward@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk, to check your eligibility.