ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the beliefs and values of police volunteers in Britain. The chapter draws on an empirical investigation into volunteering within Lancashire Constabulary, concentrating in particular on special constables and Police Support Volunteers. Consideration of the values and beliefs that volunteers bring with them is an important step to understanding the type of people who volunteer for the police and what they can contribute. The chapter considers the development of a volunteering sub-culture that overlaps with, but to a certain extent runs parallel to, dominant cultures displayed by regular paid officers. The chapter concludes that volunteers’ beliefs and values can be characterised by a desire to give back to the community, to treat citizens well and by an egalitarian recognition respect that sees inherent dignity in all. The possible positive influence this can have to broader policing is considered.
