Jeff Cuthbert is the Commissioner for Gwent Police & Crime Commisioner.

What encouraged you to sponsor the Torfaen Community and Volunteer Awards?

It is a pleasure to support the Torfaen Community and Volunteer Awards. I know many volunteers go above and beyond what is expected of them and initiatives such as the Torfaen Community and Volunteer Awards help us celebrate them and their achievements.

It’s vital we shine a light on the outstanding work of volunteers here in Torfaen. They bring a wealth of experience and skills to projects and initiatives across the borough on a daily basis.

Why are awards like TCVA important?

Awards ceremonies such as this celebrate the achievements of people and groups who have selflessly given their time to help others. It is important that we recognise those who have gone above and beyond to make a difference here in Torfaen and to thank them.

Why is it important to showcase Torfaen in this way?

It is so important to celebrate the achievements of volunteers in our communities. Many organisations and residents in Gwent rely heavily on volunteers who give their time to above to help others. My office has a number of volunteers who help me and my team hold Gwent Police to account. Animal Welfare Volunteers carry out independent checks in order to observe and report upon the conditions under which police dogs are housed, trained and transported. The Independent Custody Visiting (ICV) Scheme sees volunteers go into police custody units to check on the welfare of detainees and the facilities in which they are held. We must highlight the important roles that play a huge part in both organisations and communities.