Who Are Police Support Volunteers

How do Police Support Volunteers (PSVs) differ from employees?

PSVs give their time freely to support the Constabulary. However, they are not staff and have no employment status and are therefore not covered under employment law. This means that PSVs are not entitled to employee or worker rights.
Remember that volunteering is based on choice, so there is no mutuality of obligation. PSVs are not obliged to perform voluntary duties and as such the Constabulary has no power to order a PSV to carry out such duties or to discipline him/her for refusing to do so.

What is the legal status of a Police Support Volunteer (PSV)?

PSVs give their time freely to supportthe Constabulary. However they are not staff and have no employment status and are therefore not covered under employment law. This means that PSVs are not entitled to employee or worker rights and do not have the same responsibilities e.g. PSVs do not have to give a period of notice. This also means thatthe Constabularydoes not have the same responsibilities towards PSVs as they do for employees other than where legislation provides for specific exceptions e.g. Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, Disability Discrimination Act 1995, Sex Discrimination Acts 1975 and 1986, Protection from Harassment Act 1997 and Race Relations Act 1976.

Do Police Support Volunteers (PSVs) have to go through vetting checks?

All PSV roles will require applicants to undergo Non Police Personnel Vetting level two checks prior to acceptance onto the PSV scheme. For more information please contact the Specials and Volunteers Team.

What insurance are Police Support Volunteers (PSVs) covered by?

PSVs are covered by public liability insurance wherever they undertake their volunteering duties. In addition the Constabulary's insurance will cover damage to the PSVs property and also injury/death to the PSV that results from the negligence of the Constabulary. Note that the personal accident insurance onlycovers PSVs for a serious permanent disability (e.g. loss of a limb, eye etc.). It does not provide cover for minor or temporary injuries.
Private vehicles belonging to PSVs are not covered by the Constabulary's Motor Fleet policy. It is the PSVs responsibility to ensure the adequacy of his or her own private motor policy for potential business use. Insurers should confirm that this is covered under the definition of use of "social domestic pleasure purposes" and “volunteering use”.

Can an individual in receipt of benefits become a Police Support Volunteer (PSV)?

It is the responsibility of an individual in receipt of benefits to check with the Benefits Agency that their voluntary activities do not prejudice their entitlements. There is no duty on the part of the Constabulary to inform the agency, it is entirely down to the individual.

Aren’t Police Support Volunteers (PSVs) just a cheap substitute for policing?

No, PSVs are not a cheap substitute for policing. PSVs can only undertake approved tasks, and under no circumstance will they be used to replace staff or prevent the implementation of or justification for a paid position. Their role is to enhance and support police staff and officers, as well as building links with the community and increasing our diversity.

How many hours can a Police Support Volunteer (PSV) work?

the hours will be determined on a local basis subject to a maximum of 20 hours per week worked by any one PSV under normal circumstances. There may be exceptional temporary circumstances where this is extended. However, some roles may require a regular commitment to the allocated task (such as assistance with advertised police surgeries).

What out-of-pocket expenses can a Police Support Volunteer (PSV) claim back?

Pre-determined out-of-pocket expenses incurred in the course of volunteering for the Constabulary may be reimbursed, usually on a monthly basis.
Travel to and from the place of volunteering activity, and travel whilst volunteering can be reimbursed. Actual travel mileage can be claimed at the recommended HM Revenue & Customs approved mileage rate of 45 pence per mile. The Constabulary will pay up to 20 miles each way (40 miles in total); any additional mileage will have to be paid by the volunteer.Public transport and parking can be claimed in full subject to supporting receipts.
Under certain circumstances, e.g. for disability reasons, the use of taxis may be required, for which reimbursement needs to be approved in advance and supporting receipts will be required.
Private vehicles belonging to PSVs are not covered by the Force's Motor Fleet policy. It is the PSVs responsibility to ensure the adequacy of his or her own private motor policy for potential business use. Insurers should confirm that this is covered under the definition of use of "social domestic pleasure purposes" and “volunteering use”.

Do Police Support Volunteers (PSVs) have to wear uniform?

PSVs will not be issued with a uniform, however where appropriate they will be issued with high visibility clothing.
All PSVs will be required to adhere to the Suffolk Constabulary dress code and reflect the standards expected.

Do Police Support Volunteers (PSVs) need an identity card and name badge?

Yes, PSVs will be supplied with individual identity cards and a name badge, which must be worn at all times whilst undertaking their role.
PSVs are not permitted to wear their name badge or identity card at any time other than when they are carrying out agreed volunteer duties.

How are Police Support Volunteers (PSVs) trained?

All new PSVs will attend a local induction course
The PSVs named supervisor will be responsible for their local induction.
All PSVs must complete a computer based training package covering Information Security, Data Protection, Freedom of Information and Government Protective Marking Scheme and Diversity training. Other online training is also available.
PSVs using other Constabulary systems must attend the specific training courses for these systems.

Do Police Support Volunteers (PSVs) have to complete a trial period?

Yes, all PSV are subject to a three-month trial period. The placement will be to ensure that the PSV and all parties are happy with the placement. Where a PSV is unsuitable or unhappy in a particular role, an alternative will be sought.

What happens if a Police Support Volunteer (PSV) cannot attend a pre-arranged shift due to sickness or any other reason?

If a PSV cannot attend a pre-arranged shift we ask that they contact their supervisor or place of volunteering and let them know as soon as possible.

I have seen a police staff post advertised, as a Police Support Volunteer (PSV) could I apply for it?

PSVs are not permitted to apply for Suffolk Constabulary posts advertised internally, they could however apply for externally advertised posts like any other member of the public.

What happens when a Police Support Volunteer (PSV) leaves or wants to leave?

It is acknowledged that for some, this may be a change in their personal circumstances which means that they are no longer available to volunteer, or may perhaps be moving away from the area. For others, however, their reasons may be dissatisfaction with the Constabulary, demotivation, or feelings associated with being undervalued and unappreciated. Where such concerns are expressed the Constabulary would take time to consider the issues raised and whether there are ways to improve the situation.

No notice is required if a PSV wishes to leave the scheme.

For PSVs who no longer wish to give their time, exit interviews are requested, (although not compulsory); as this would provide an opportunity to review any issues that could help improve the situation.

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