At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team to monitor speeding vehicles and promote road safety in your community.
- Company: Northumbria Police is dedicated to making the region safer and better for everyone.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, receive training, and make a real impact in your community.
- Why this job: Be part of a national initiative that empowers locals to improve road safety and quality of life.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a passion for community safety and teamwork.
- Other info: Flexible volunteering hours; only two hours a month required, working in pairs or small groups.
Here at Northumbria Police, we think our region is amazing! It takes a great deal of people from different backgrounds, with diverse skills and experience to serve our force area effectively. This could be the perfect time for you to join us as a Community Speedwatch Volunteer.
Community Speedwatch (CSW) is a national initiative which plays a vital role in helping to reduce speeding vehicles. The scheme aims to educate drivers on the importance of road safety and make motorists aware that the community won’t tolerate speeding. It’s about taking positive action, with local people working together with Northumbria Police to improve the safety and quality of life for everyone in the area.
We are looking for volunteers to join our CSW schemes and conduct activity across the below locations:
- Newcastle Area Command – Gosforth & Dinnington
- Gateshead Area Command – Ryton, Winlaton & Crawcrook
- Northumberland Area Command – All areas across Northumberland
- North Tyneside Area Command – Shiremoor
- Sunderland Area Command – Barnes/The Broadway & Farringdon
If you’re a local resident concerned about speeding issues in your area, this is your opportunity to make a difference!
What training will I receive?
Full training will be given prior to becoming a volunteer. You will be issued a digital handbook which will give a full overview of the role, alongside guidance to speed gun operation and roadside health and safety. An officer will accompany you on your very first Speedwatch duty.
Once fully trained, you’ll work in a team of two to four volunteers. Then you’ll visit 20mph and 30mph roads of your choice with a radar to record the speed and registration number of the offending vehicles. You will use equipment to capture:
- Speed
- Registration number
- Vehicle make, model and colour
- Time and direction of travel
A portable speed sign will warn drivers of your presence and will act as a reminder to consider their speed as they approach.
How much time do I need to volunteer?
We ask that you volunteer a minimum of two hours per month if you are able; however, we would encourage you to offer your time only as and when is suitable. We do ask that you volunteer in groups of two to four, during daylight hours only and in safe weather conditions.
If you are concerned about speeding in your area, then please apply to become a Community Speedwatch Volunteer!
Where will I be volunteering?
Community Speedwatch spans 2000 square miles. That’s from the top of our force area in Berwick-upon-Tweed to the bottom in Houghton-le-Spring. While you can select any 20mph or 30mph road for Community Speedwatch duty within one of the areas listed above, your SPOC may also ask you to deploy (within reasonable travelling distance) to problem roads which exceed your immediate locality – however this is entirely up to you to accept.
Community Speedwatch employer: Northumbria Police
Contact Detail:
Northumbria Police Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Speedwatch
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know your local area and the specific speeding issues that residents are concerned about. This will help you engage with the community effectively and demonstrate your commitment during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Connect with current volunteers or local community groups involved in road safety initiatives. Networking can provide valuable insights into the role and show your proactive approach to making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with the Community Speedwatch programme and its objectives. Understanding the goals and methods of the initiative will allow you to speak confidently about how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your availability and willingness to volunteer in groups. Highlighting your flexibility and teamwork skills will make you a more attractive candidate for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Community Speedwatch
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read through the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and expectations of a Community Speedwatch Volunteer. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasise any previous volunteer work or community involvement that showcases your commitment to road safety or community service. Mention specific examples where you have made a positive impact.
Express Your Motivation: Clearly articulate why you want to join the Community Speedwatch initiative. Share your personal connection to the issue of speeding in your area and how you believe you can contribute to making a difference.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread it for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-written application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Northumbria Police
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of what the Community Speedwatch role entails. Familiarise yourself with the objectives of the initiative and how it contributes to road safety in your community.
✨Show Your Passion for Community Safety
During the interview, express your genuine concern for road safety and your desire to make a positive impact in your local area. Share any personal experiences or motivations that drive your interest in this volunteer position.
✨Prepare Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask about the training process, team dynamics, and the specific areas where you might be deployed. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the role is right for you.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
Since you'll be working in groups of two to four, highlight any previous experience you have in teamwork or community projects. Emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively and support your fellow volunteers.