EXTENDED USE OF VOLUNTEERS

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Conference
2009 Police Staff Service Group Conference
Date
24 June 2009
Decision
Carried

This Conference is increasingly concerned about the expanding use of volunteers within Police Forces.

We believe that the current economic climate and the impact of stricter budget controls will give Forces an excuse to consider using volunteers in more strategic capacities.

Conference recognises this as a significant threat to established Police Staff posts and calls on the Service Group Executive to :

(i) Revisit the Unison guidelines to ensure they reflect the current position.

(ii) Widely publicise the guidelines to ensure they are implemented and that established posts are correctly staffed.

(iii) Monitor the use of volunteers at national level.

(iv) Press for firm assurances from our employers that volunteers will not be used to replace existing staff or fill vacant posts.

(v) Raise our concerns with the Home Secretary to seek additional assurances to protect Police Staff roles.