Helping forces to set up citizens in policing programmes and recruit, train and manage different kinds of volunteers in a force.
How we can help
We recognise the value volunteers add to policing – through improving community engagement, increasing available resources and skillsets, and allowing officers and staff to focus on frontline duties. We support forces in the development of their volunteering programmes by setting standards in key areas and working to establish an evidence base around citizens in policing (CiP) activities.
CiP is an umbrella term used to describe:
- special constables
- police support volunteers
- volunteer police cadets (see more information on the Volunteer Police Cadet website)
If you're interested in becoming a volunteer, find out more in our information about joining the police.
Special constables
About the role and activities of special constables.
Police support volunteers
About the role and activities of police support volunteers.