Volunteers Needed – Community Speed Watch
Following meetings between residents, the Parish Council, WNC Highways and Northamptonshire Police it was agreed that there was sufficient interest in creating a Community Speed Watch Group in Maidwell.
We are looking for a minimum of 6 volunteers and 1 co-ordinator to set up the group. Please register your interest via the Clerk at clerk@maidwellwithdraughtonparishcouncil.gov.uk
More Information
How It Works
Volunteer groups receive online training and equipment to carry out roadside speed monitoring in their local area. These activities take place between March and October, during daylight hours only, and at times chosen by the group based on local concerns. Drivers detected speeding by CSW volunteers receive a police warning letter, and their details are retained for 12 months to help identify repeat offenders. Any driver recorded three or more times will receive a personal visit from police officers. The programme currently supports hundreds of volunteers across more than 60 communities in Northamptonshire, monitoring speeds in 20mph, 30mph, and 40mph zones. Please note: CSW focuses solely on excess speed. It does not address other traffic offences such as driving without insurance, using a mobile phone, or vehicle weight violations.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for CSW, communities must demonstrate local support for the scheme. This is typically provided through:
- A letter of support from the parish or town council,
Any supporting council must also commit to publicising the upcoming CSW activity within the community.To participate, each community must have:
- One co-ordinator
- A minimum of six volunteers (fewer may be accepted on a case-by-case basis)
- Formal support from the parish or town council
These requirements must be met before a place in the programme can be allocated.
Roles within CSW
Co-ordinator
Serves as the main point of contact with Northamptonshire Police. Responsibilities include:
- Organising the patrol timetable and organising the email returns
- Managing volunteer details
- Coordinating equipment delivery and collection
- Participating in roadside monitoring sessions
Volunteer
Works alongside other trained residents during roadside sessions, using speed detection equipment and recording details of speeding vehicles in line with the training provided.
Training and Insurance
All volunteers must complete a digital training session, which includes practical and operational guidance. Training is delivered via an online video, and once completed, volunteers are covered by public liability insurance while participating in CSW activities.
