An ACPO-led series of workshops for forces interested in encouraging volunteering in policing is proving to be extremely popular, it has been reported.

DCC Rob Beckley, (pictured, of Avon and Somerset Constabulary, said that the programme had seen a significant uptake and chief officers are keen to tap into the skills of the public.

DCC Beckley – who is the ACPO Lead on Citizens in Policing – highlighted that three roadshows had so far been delivered and several others were in the pipeline.

In an interview with PoliceOracle.com PC Lee Kerslake, who is in the Citizen Focus Team at Avon & Somerset, said a letter had been sent out to all chief constables.

He added: “So far we have run sessions with South Wales, Gwent and Northumbria and we have a number of others already planned and in the pipeline.

“With the austerity measures that we have seen, it seems that people are looking at volunteering as an area with which they could explore and do more with.”

PC Kerslake highlighted that there were events for both volunteers and police officers, with the aim of helping forces formulate an action plan going forward.

As previously reported on PoliceOracle.com, DCC Beckley has said he is keen to help chief officers overcome practical barriers and assist volunteers in fulfilling a useful role.

He pointed out that special constables with the right skill sets could be used in specialist investigation roles. In addition, in one force, he highlighted that the volunteer officers who were proficient riders are already patrolling on horseback.

PC Kerslake said: “DCC Beckley is extremely keen to encourage volunteering and he will always explain what can practically be done to make it happen.”