News Flash

Members may be aware through recent media releases that SAPOL is planning the introduction of Civilian Volunteers to Police Stations in South Australia.

At this stage, SAPOL is seeking to introduce volunteers into the Holden Hill and Golden Grove stations where volunteers will be used in a “meet and greet” capacity, in what SAPOL have said is a bid to improve customer service and put more officers on the streets.

The PSA strongly opposes the use of volunteers in any role that may have a negative impact on our members, and the community.

As you are aware, a police station can be a volatile work site dealing with complex and confidential issues on a daily basis.

The PSA has met with PSA members at the Holden Hill station, and a number of concerns were discussed:

• Volunteers could be as young as 12 years old

• what level of training will be provided to the volunteers?

• what training will be provided to the administrative staff?

• where would the volunteers be placed?

• How will confidentiality be assured?

If you have not seen a copy of the 'Police Volunteers Program Manual – a Reference Guide for the State Coordinator, Police Volunteers, Local Volunteer Coordinators and Managers', you are encouraged to ask Management to supply you a copy.

The PSA is seeking feedback from all members in SAPOL to assist in the development of the PSA response to make sure:

• PSA members understand the role of volunteers,

• a safe working environment is maintained

• jobs security is maintained

• Management address any concerns raised.

PSA ~ WORKING FOR MEMBERS IN SAPOL

31 August 2009