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Police Scotland Youth Volunteers

Welcome to Police Scotland Youth Volunteers

PSYV promotes a practical way for young people to understand policing by supporting the Police in their local area through volunteering. As part of this, young people are given a chance for their voice to be heard and encouraged to promote good citizenship.

The Police Scotland Youth Volunteers Programme gives young people an insight into policing in Scotland and inspires them to participate positively in their communities. PSYV in Scotland aim to:

  • Promote a practical understanding of policing amongst all young people;
  • Encourage the spirit of adventure and good citizenship;
  • Support local policing priorities through volunteering;
  • Give young people a chance to be heard; and
  • Inspire young people to participate positively in their communities.

Volunteers have actively supported policing in Scotland for over 100 years by joining the service as Special Constables.  The programme gives young people of all backgrounds a positive means of engagement with the police service. Through regular training and participation in community safety initiatives, youth volunteers are given opportunities to overcome barriers and discover their talents whilst making a positive contribution to their communities.

Find out what we've been up to

Find out what we have been up to recently and follow us on our Facebook account  or our Twitter/ X account.

Psyv Landing Youth volunteers

Youth Volunteers

If you live in Scotland and are aged between 13-15 register your interest. You must attend weekly sessions and attend regular volunteering events in your community and occasionally other parts of the country. Please note your local group will only contact you if there are spaces available. Places are limited and in a high demand. To register your interest please use our PSYV recruitment form.

Psyv Landing Adult volunteers

Adult Volunteers

The PSYV is heavily reliant on the goodwill of Adult Volunteers who give up their time to support their local PSYV group and assist with the supervision of the Young Volunteers at both local sessions and volunteering events.

As an Adult Volunteer you be expected to dedicate a minimum of three hours per month for volunteering events alongside attend training forums

Each Adult Volunteer will be required to join the Protecting Vulnerable Groups Scheme (PVG). This process will be managed by the PSYV programme.

If you are interested register here.

What our members say

Psyv Landing Testimonial East

Martha - East

I joined PSYV in September of 2023 as I wanted to volunteer and do something to help the community. The training I got was really good and I have enjoyed working at some of the volunteering events. Working at The Royal Highland Show and the Military Tattoo were highlights. I have enjoyed meeting new people and have made great friends. There are also some fun nights out as well. And being a Youth Volunteer has improved my confidence and is great for my CV and university application. I would really recommend become a Youth Volunteer with Police Scotland.

Psyv Landing Testimonial West

Nida - West

PSYV has given me courage and confidence to believe in my own capabilities and no longer doubt myself. PSYV has provided me with a place to develop my communication skills and step out of my comfort zone. Through volunteering, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to expand on my personal skills such as teamwork and many other qualities in order to prepare myself for the future. PSYV is truly a unique experience.

Psyv Landing Testimonial North

Daniel - North

I have enjoyed PSYV because of the events and the experiences I have had.  I have enjoyed meeting new people and making new friends.  I feel that PSYV had helped me build up my confidence a lot.  I have learned new things in PSYV and about myself. 

Event support

If you are hosting an event that requires PSYV marshalling and support use our event booking form.

Invite the Police Scotland Youth Volunteers to assist.

Complete the Event Request form. Your local PSYV Group Coordinator will contact you as soon as possible.

Duties to consider that the PSYV have assisted with at previous sports, arts and community events include:

  • Meeting and greeting visitors
  • Handing out leaflets/literature
  • Handing out 'I'm lost' wristbands to children
  • Litter picks
  • Signposting visitors
  • Lost/found property
  • General assistance
  • This list is not exhaustive, please specify on the form any anticipated duties for PSYV's at your event and the group coordinator will discuss these with you.

Please note, submitting this form does not guarantee PSYV assistance. Demand is high and each one depends on the suitability of the event, the duties and availability. Please give at least one month's notice of your event.