A new police welfare van has been launched to provide officers across County Durham and Darlington with a space to rest and get refreshments during long deployments.
The van, which has been converted thanks to a £10k grant by Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen and matched funding from Durham Police Federation and Unison, features a range of amenities including a toilet, sink, awning, solar power, diesel heater, microwave and space for seating.
It has been designed to enhance the welfare of hard-working officers on jobs where rest facilities are limited including missing person searches, ongoing scene preservation and largescale public events.
Durham Constabulary has purchased the van, which has become part of the force’s fleet, and the force will continue to maintain and service the vehicle in the future.
PCC Joy Allen said: “I am delighted to contribute towards this fantastic new facility. Our officers are instrumental to keeping our county safe and they deserve the very best support and equipment to do their jobs effectively.
“I know the welfare van is a welcomed addition to the force’s fleet and will make long shifts and deployments out in the elements much easier to cope with.
“The care of our workforce is a top priority for both the Chief Constable and myself as Commissioner and collectively we are committed to investing in the technology, training and facilities that enhance their personal wellbeing and professional capabilities, so they feel appreciated and supported. You simply cannot put a price on feeling valued.
“The welfare van is just one example of several improvements we are investing in to meet the needs of the workforce and create the best and safest working environment for officers and staff to further boost satisfaction and morale within the force. It comes hot on the heels of our investment in the state-of-the-art Durham Investigative Hub which has transformed the working environment for custody officers and is one of the most advanced police investigative facilities in the UK.”
The force has at least 590 frontline female officers alongside female CSI staff who work long hours on scene.
The van ensures that these female officers and staff have access to a safe and comfortable space to manage their personal needs while working at a scene.
Many forces and Police Federations across the UK have successfully introduced a Welfare Van and the response has been extremely positive with the facilities well-used and appreciated.
