Gwent Police volunteers commended for their contribution to policing

18th October 2021

Gwent Police’s senior police cadets and Special Chief Inspector Esther McLaughlin have been recognised at the Lord Ferrers Awards for their inspirational contributions to policing in Gwent. 

 

The Lord Ferrers Awards recognise outstanding contributions to volunteering in policing.

 

The senior police cadets received the Volunteer Police Cadet Team Award for their White Ribbon Youth Ambassador initiative, and their ongoing commitment to raise awareness of violence against women and girls.

 

The White Ribbon Youth Ambassadors established links in their schools, colleges, and with safeguarding officers within educational facilities, helping to shape and identify new ways to engage with young people about domestic abuse, and encouraging peer mentors to deliver vital messages.

 

Special Chief Constable Esther McLaughlin was awarded the Leadership Award for the work she does to recruit, support and mentor Special Constables in Gwent in addition to her full-time role as the All Wales Citizens in Policing Co-ordinator.

 

Police and Crime Commissioner Jeff Cuthbert said: “Winning not one but two awards is a fantastic achievement for Gwent Police.

 

“I am delighted that the Senior Cadets and Special Chief Inspector Esther McLaughlin have been recognised for their outstanding commitment to policing.

 

“Volunteering opens up a range of possibilities for all involved, it promotes and embeds active citizenship in our communities.

 

“Volunteers play an enormous part in protecting and reassuring the people of Gwent. I have seen first-hand just how important they have been in recent months during the pandemic.

 

“From our Heddlu Bach pupils in our primary schools, to the senior cadets and special constables, I know that they all play a huge contribution in helping the communities of Gwent to stay safe.

 

“There are currently 138 schools participating in the Heddlu Bach scheme and over 200 cadets. Each one of these young people are learning skills that will last with them forever. Some may even become inspired to become police officers.

 

“I am so proud of all the volunteers who go over and above for Gwent Police. I would like to thank them all, for their dedication, time and commitment to policing.”

Recruitment is currently taking place for special constables. For more information visit the Gwent Police website: https://www.gwent.police.uk/police-forces/gwent-police/areas/careers/join-us/special-constables/

 

For more information about Cadets and the NXT Gen Team: https://www.gwent.police.uk/police-forces/gwent-police/areas/careers/join-us/police-cadets/