South Yorkshire Police gives 'special' thanks to volunteers helping during pandemic

Special constables in South Yorkshire have been thanked for their efforts during the coronavirus crisis.
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In Rotherham alone, volunteer special constables have given up over 1,101 hours of their time this month to boost numbers on the front line – patrolling the streets and working as part of response teams dealing with live incidents.

Specials across the county have helped with community engagement work to encourage members of the public and businesses to adhere to lockdown rand social distancing rules.practice social distancing and advising the public on how to adhere to government guidelines.Special Sergeant Jamie Jackson said: “Things are definitely different, but lots of us want to give more than ever. We want to be here, and we want to be part of it.“We’re still attending incidents such as collisions, burglaries and searching for missing people, but we’re also speaking to people about Covid-19, ensuring people are staying safe and being responsible.”Special Deputy Chief Officer Craig Batham said: “In the last few weeks our officers have really stepped things up a gear. They’ve done long shifts and some have worked full six-day rotas with our regular colleagues due to being furloughed from their day jobs.“This is a massive commitment and speaking personally, I can't thank our officers enough for what they have given so far, and what they will no doubt continue to give over the coming months.”Assistant Chief Constable David Hartley said: “I cannot stress enough how thankful I am to have such dedicated and passionate people within our force at this time.“The Special Constabulary are a vital asset as we continue to deal with the challenges Covid-19 poses, and are a hugely significant support to our regular officers.“I think it’s important that the public are aware of the volunteers we have amongst our ranks, not just at the moment, but throughout the year.“At a time when people are acknowledging the work of our frontline services, those who volunteer their experience, skills and time should certainly get recognition.“I would also like to acknowledge employers who support our Special Constabulary, by being flexible and just as passionate as those who volunteer.”

A message from the Editor:

Special constables have been thanked for helping during the coronavirus crisis.Special constables have been thanked for helping during the coronavirus crisis.
Special constables have been thanked for helping during the coronavirus crisis.

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