PREVENTING crime is not just a job for police – members of the community can also help keep their communities safe through the Volunteers in Policing (ViP) program.
Bayside Crime Prevention's Acting Sergeant Monique Duncan said ViPs undertook important liaison duties to help complement the work of paid officers.
“They are our link between the community and police,” she said.
ViP Ken Dickson said more volunteers were needed in the Capalaba, Cleveland, Redland Bay and Wynnum areas. He said a four-hour minimum commitment was needed every week on Mondays and Tuesdays, with new recruits to receive training from their first day.
“It is about giving back to the community,” Mr Dickson said. “I certainly get to support people with understanding crime prevention techniques to make them safer.”
Mr Dickson said the best parts of the role were getting to know the community and making friends.
Tasks include informing residents of crime near them through letterbox drops, helping the public to keep their homes and cars safe and assisting shop owners to tighten their security plans.
I certainly get to support people with understanding crime prevention techniques to make them safer.
- ViP Ken Dickson
Volunteers also learn how to present seminars on topics including identity theft, credit card fraud and mobility scooter safety to those in aged care.
Mr Dickson said applications should be received before February 10. Applications can be found here and are available from your nearest police station.
Applications should be addressed to the District Crime Prevention Coordinator at the Wynnum Police Station at 82 Pine Street, Wynnum, Qld, 4178.
For more, visit www.police.qld.gov.au.
