More support for local policing to help keep North Lincolnshire communities safe

Safer neighbourhoods and stronger local policing could be supported through a proposed commitment that would enable council staff to volunteer with the police.

The council is considering a proposal that would allow employees who serve as special constables or police support volunteers to be supported through authorised, employer-supported release to carry out their duties — making it easier for people to step forward and give their time to local policing, subject to a formal decision.

If approved, the approach would help increase visible policing, provide additional support for frontline officers, and offer greater reassurance for residents, while enabling council staff to contribute directly to community safety where they live and work.

Cllr Elaine Marper, cabinet member for transforming the customer journey, said: “This is about backing people who want to give something back and strengthening community safety.

“We already have employees who volunteer their time to support local policing, and this proposal would provide clear, structured support for others who may want to step forward. It would be good for our staff, good for local policing, and most importantly, good for residents.”

Special constables are volunteer police officers with full policing powers, while police support volunteers assist with roles such as front desk services, administration and community engagement — helping to free up officers to focus on frontline policing.

The proposal would see the council take part in the national Employer Supported Policing initiative, which encourages employers to actively support staff who volunteer with the police in a structured and responsible way.

If agreed, residents would benefit from more support for local policing teams, greater visibility and reassurance in neighbourhoods, and stronger partnerships focused on keeping communities safe.