Kilwinning teen off to New Zealand as police youth volunteer

Matthew MacGregor, 16, will join 13 other young Scots at an international leadership and development course, run by Blue Light New Zealand between July 28 and August 12.

He became a Police Scotland Youth volunteer last year and hopes to join the force to help people and the community.

Inspector Norman Towler said: "The visit to New Zealand by Police Scotland Youth Volunteers (PSYV) is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the amazing work done by all our groups in their communities.

"The 13 volunteers represent their groups and communities, and are drawn from all of our Local Policing Divisions nationally. This will provide them the opportunity to engage with other young people from New Zealand, Australia, and the USA on an international level as they work to make our communities safer.

"The dedication of these young people, who represent all of our volunteers, to work with each other and Police Scotland is inspiring.

"They are committed to developing new ideas on improving community wellbeing, and they are already leaders in their local PSYV groups.

"Throughout their two weeks there, the volunteers will participate in an international leadership and development course run by Blue Light New Zealand. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for them to learn, grow, and continue to be role models to others."

Assistant Chief Constable Emma Bond said: “The Police Scotland Youth Volunteers initiative provides Scotland’s young people the opportunity to contribute to their communities while developing as individuals.

“It gives them an insight into policing in Scotland while engaging in volunteering experiences that positively impacts their communities.

“The PSYV works closely with partners to ensure a rounded approach is taken to community work and strengthen the positive influence of volunteers.

“If you want to become a Police Scotland Youth Volunteer, you can find out more and apply on the Police Scotland website.”