Police Scotland Youth Volunteers (PSYV) shine in Budapest

Overview

Chief Constable Jo Farrell has received two letters of commendation from distinguished guests who attended the International Symposium on Volunteering and Complementary Policing, held in Budapest in May.

​​They were writing the letters of praise in response to six members of Police Scotland's Youth Volunteer (PSYV) programme who attended the symposium to deliver two presentations to delegates from police services across 15 different countries.

Duncan Millar, Jack Anderson, Leyla Akar, Tilly Fu, Anya Burns, and Iyona Shaar delivered powerful presentations entitled 'The Importance of Youth Volunteering in Policing – A Scottish Perspective' and 'My Journey with PSYV – Building Leadership, Confidence and Good Citizenship'.

The letters praised the young people for the extraordinary degree of professionalism, clarity and the genuine passion they demonstrated during their presentations, receiving the only standing ovation of the entire symposium.

Inspector Norman Towler, Volunteer Coordination Unit, said “It was an absolute privilege to lead the Police Scotland Youth Volunteers delegation at the symposium in Budapest. Representing our country on a global stage, Duncan, Jack , Leyla, Tilly, Anya and Iyona, drawn from PSYV groups nationally, showcased the very best values of Police Scotland.

“As the only young people in attendance among experienced professionals from over 15 countries, they truly captured the essence of youth element in voluntary policing. They took complete ownership of their sessions, delivering powerful presentations and spoke with such an extraordinary degree of professionalism, clarity and genuine passion that they earned the only standing ovation of the entire symposium. It was a deeply moving highlight that captured the moment.

“Beyond the stage, these young people engaged thoughtfully with international delegates throughout the two-day programme, positioning Police Scotland as a global exemplar in youth volunteering. The immense pride my team felt watching them bridge social divides, build community spirit and advocate for civic responsibility cannot be overstated.

“They are an absolute credit to the PSYV programme and Police Scotland, and this experience reinforces our ongoing commitment to providing transformative opportunities that empower young people to become leaders within their own local communities."

Everyone at Police Scotland would like to echo Inspector Towler's words and congratulate Duncan, Jack, Leyla, Tilly, Anya and Iyona​ for their outstanding contribution to Police Scotland and the PSYV.

​Click on the links, below, to read the letters of commendation.​

• Commendation letter from Professor Matthew Callender, University of Northampton
• Commendation letter from Matt Bishop MP.