Police Scotland Youth Volunteers (PSYV) go to New Zealand

Overview

PSYV recently took part in a Leadership and Development Course in New Zealand. This case study covers the highlights of their experience. This was a partnership between Police Scotland, New Zealand Police, Blue Light New Zealand, Australia’s Police Citizen Youth Clubs, and USA Police Athletic League.

The course created an opportunity where young people could learn new skills such as how to communicate effectively, how to work as a team, and how to motivate others. They had the opportunity to put these skills into practice during the various activities and challenges they participated in. As a result, they developed their confidence and their ability to lead.

They also took part in adventure-based activities, sightseeing, and traditional Māori experiences.

Police Scotland police officers met with the British Deputy High Commissioner for New Zealand, the New Zealand Police Youth Engagement Team, and New Zealand Police in Auckland. They discussed the PSYV programme and the benefits of youth volunteering in communities.

Key Achievements

• The PSYV formed strong bonds and friendships with the other young people from New Zealand, USA and Australia.
• They learned new leadership skills and developed their confidence.
• They experienced different cultures and gained a better understanding of the world.
• They made a positive contribution to the communities they visited.
• Raised awareness in the value of youth volunteering.
• Built relationships and understanding between the PSYV and other organisations working with young people.

Potential Areas for Further Collaboration

• The PSYV programme could be adapted for use in New Zealand.
• The two police organisations could work together to develop shared training programmes for young people.
• Collaboration on research into the benefits of youth volunteering (an evaluation of PSYV in Scotland is currently underway).

Visit to Aberdeen Primary School in New Zealand

A highlight of the visit for the PSYV was a visit to Aberdeen Primary School in Hamilton, New Zealand. The PSYV were able to share their culture with the students and learn about New Zealand culture in return. They also played games and activities with the students, which helped to build relationships and understanding.

The visit also had a lasting impact on the school. The PSYV group coordinator who runs the Aberdeen PSYV groups formed a link with the school, and the two organisations will look to work together to develop and promote positive relationships between young people and the police.

It showed how young people from different countries can come together and learn from each other. It also showed how the police can play a role in building positive relationships with young people as part of their communities. 

Finally

The trip was a resounding success, and it has paved the way for further collaboration between Police Scotland Youth Volunteers, New Zealand Police Force, Blue Light New Zealand, Australia’s Police Citizen Youth Clubs, and USA Police Athletic League.

The post deployment survey has provided an overwhelmingly positive response to the project from participants and parents.

In addition to the key achievements, the PSYV's involvement in this project has also helped to:

• Promote the PSYV programme internationally.
• Raise awareness of the value of youth volunteering
• Build relationships and understanding between the PSYV and other organizations working with young people.

You can find out more and sign-up to be a youth or adult volunteer on our website.