Recognising those who go above and beyond in policing is the focus of a new awards scheme jointly hosted by Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens and Chief Constable Andy Marsh.
The awards highlight the very best of Avon and Somerset Constabulary, acknowledging and rewarding the dedicated officers, staff and volunteers for their hard work in ensuring the communities of Avon and Somerset are safe and feel safe.
The Be Proud Awards, formerly known as the Neighbourhood Policing Awards, have been extended to recognise all those involved in fighting crime, supporting victims and bringing offenders to justice.
Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens said: “I am delighted to launch the new Be Proud Awards. Awards like these mean so much to the officers, staff and volunteers who work hard to keep us safe, as they are essentially a huge well done and thank you from the people they serve.
“The new categories aim to recognise everyone who supports policing and I look forward to reading about how each of the individuals and teams have helped and supported keeping you safe, supporting victims and taking offenders off our streets.
“We are looking for submissions that highlight the very best examples of policing and I hope that you will take the time to nominate because without your nominations we cannot recognise those people making a difference where you live.”
The awards recognise the outstanding work of police officers, staff and volunteers in the following categories:
- Neighbourhood Officer of the Year;
- Response Officer of the Year;
- Investigator of the Year;
- Police Staff Member of the Year;
- Police Support Volunteer of the Year;
- Special Constable of the Year;
- Policing Team of the Year;
- Specialist Operations Award.
Chief Constable Andy Marsh said: “A simple thank you for a job well done has always been worth a great deal to me, as it is to my officers and staff.
“For the public to recognise the efforts of those who make up our policing service, means so much for those who work hard day after day, or as they tell me ‘just doing their job’.
“Pride in what we do, and in our people striving for the best is really important to us. So to hear that our local communities feel safe is welcome recognition of their continued hard work and commitment to the public we serve.
“I hope that local people see these awards and take the time to nominate.”
To nominate visit www.beproudawards.com – the closing date for nominations is 27th January 2017.
Hardcopy nomination forms are also available in police stations, local community buildings and on request via 01275 816377.
After this date an independent panel will select winners across the policing areas and an awards ceremony will be held on Thursday 18th May 2017 at Cadbury House Hotel, where an overall winner for each category will be announced.
