Being there when people need help: Rushden-based SERVE celebrates links with Northamptonshire Police
A day on patrol has highlighted the shared commitment behind policing, befriending and community volunteering — helping people feel safer, supported and connected.
SERVE is celebrating its relationship with Northamptonshire Police after Befriending Manager Cheryl Smith joined officers and Special Constables for a day in Kettering.
Invited as part of Employer Supported Policing Day, which marked 195 years of the Special Constabulary, Cheryl saw first-hand how listening, reassurance and looking out for vulnerable people are important parts of everyday policing.
Following a briefing and the fitting of a protective vest, Cheryl accompanied a police officer and three Special Constables on patrol. The day included walking through Kettering town centre and attending calls involving shoplifting, a welfare check on an older person and an incident involving a fight.
For Cheryl, the strongest impression was the care shown towards people and the importance of maintaining a reassuring presence in the community.
She said: “One of my biggest takeaways was seeing first-hand how much policing is about supporting the community, engaging with people and maintaining a visible presence in the local area. It reinforced the importance of building relationships, reassuring residents and being there when people need help.”
Cheryl also praised the welcome she received from Julie Mead, Citizens in Policing Manager at Northants Police and the team, saying she felt safe, supported and included throughout the visit.
Although described as a relatively quiet day, it offered a memorable insight into the demands of policing and the contribution made by volunteers.
“It gave me a greater appreciation of the care, professionalism and commitment shown by police officers and Special Constables in supporting and protecting our communities,” she added. “A fantastic and memorable experience, although I’ll happily leave the high-speed driving on blue lights to the professionals!”
Different roles, a shared commitment to people
SERVE’s befriending and well-being services help people build connections, reduce isolation and feel supported. Cheryl’s visit highlighted some of the same human qualities in policing: patience, empathy, trust and noticing when somebody may need help.
Tony Gibbs, chief executive of SERVE, said: “Cheryl’s experience is a lovely reminder that strong communities are built through relationships. A reassuring conversation, a familiar face or somebody taking the time to listen can make a real difference.
“We value our relationship with Northamptonshire Police and welcome opportunities to understand each other’s work. Our responsibilities are different, but we share a commitment to helping people feel safer, less isolated and better supported.
“Volunteers make an enormous contribution to that work. Whether someone chooses befriending, community support or a role with the police, giving their time can have a positive impact on other people’s lives.”
Could you make a difference?
Northamptonshire Police offers several ways for residents to contribute, including:
Special Constables: trained volunteer police officers with police powers who work alongside regular officers.
Police Support Volunteers: people who contribute their skills to support police teams in a range of roles.
Street Watch: residents walking their neighbourhoods through organised schemes, engaging with others and reporting concerns.
Volunteer Police Cadets: opportunities for young people to develop skills, confidence and a commitment to their community.
Independent Advisory Groups and other community schemes: ways to share perspectives, offer advice and help strengthen relationships between police and residents.
Opportunities and recruitment arrangements vary. Residents can explore current options at www.northants.police.uk under “Careers and volunteering”.
Anyone interested in supporting SERVE’s befriending and other community services can find out more at www.serve.org.uk.