PCSO receives Queen's Award for voluntary service

One of the force’s Police Community Support Officers (PCSO) has received the Queen’s Award for voluntary service.

PCSO Paul Washington, who is based at Longton Police Station, received the Queen's Award on Sunday 17 October for his work in Fenton.

Paul volunteered at The Hub, a charity which aims to provide children with a voice in the local community, whilst working across two key areas in the Stoke South Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT).

Paul was originally the PCSO for Fenton, but had recently moved post.

Paul said: "Over the years working in Fenton, the NPT have had a close working relationship with The Hub.

"We have run many Junior Cadets Schemes and supported their work with vulnerable people in the community.

"I volunteered by taking a group of children to Stanley Head Outdoor Centre each year. I was one of three adults that accompanied the kids for three days and two nights, where we supported and catered for them as they faced the daily activities set by staff at the centre."

Paul said: "I have loved working with The Hub, both in a professional and personal capacity."

HM Lord Lieutenant Mr Ian Dudson, presented the award to volunteers.

Paul said: "The Queen’s Award is a great privilege. One of the rewards of working in neighbourhood policing is seeing the fantastic work being done in our communities and having the opportunity to make a difference."

Inspector Scott McGrath, of Stoke South NPT, said: "PCSO Washington is a true asset to Staffordshire Police and I would like to wish him my congratulations for receiving such a fantastic award."