A special job

Many people seek something more exciting than their routine nine to five but don’t want to leave the safety net of their job. Well now you can have the best of both worlds by getting the excitement of becoming a Special Constable as well as keeping the stability and wages of your nine to five.

The Special Constabulary is a force of trained volunteers who work with and support their local police. From accountants to teachers, Specials come from all walks of life, forming an important link between the regular police and the local community.

They all volunteer a minimum of four hours a week and once they have completed their training they have the same powers as regular officers and wear a similar uniform.

‘The majority of officers work on a Friday or Saturday evening, however, some find that they have time during the day. Others come in and undertake a full eight hour shift once a fortnight,’ explains a police spokesperson.

Training

As you are a volunteer you are unlikely to be paid however your uniform will be free and you will be reimbursed for any work related expenses. On the flip side the training that is provided compensates for the lack of money.

‘There is a lot of ongoing training involved with becoming a Special, which all helps towards becoming a good team member, improving communication skills, decision making and leadership skills,’ says a police spokesperson.

‘Since I have been a Special Constable I have done so many courses and had so much training. For example first aid, people management skills, communications, driving courses and defensive tactics, the list is endless, you really do get out what you put in,’ says Justin Limb, Pennine Division (Burnley).

Speaking from experience

Justin Limb started as a Special three years ago. Working in a nine to five day job without much excitement Justin felt he was missing out on doing something with his life that would make him say ‘yes I’m now making a difference’.

Thanks to the experience he gained as a Special he is now working for Lancashire Constabulary in the Viper Department dealing with identification issues in cases. ‘This is a job I love and a role which has enabled me to use the new skills I have learnt since becoming a Special Constable,’ says Justin.

Like any job being a Special is not without its ups and downs especially as Specials are combining their regular job with volunteering.

‘There are infinitely more up sides to down sides the positives are I am 500% more confident in myself and my abilities than I ever was. The downs are you may be asked to work unsociable hours like a Friday evening, and you may come across and deal with situations that really test you to the limit,’ explains Justin.

Special qualities

As with all jobs there are basic entry requirements many of which mirror those of the regular police.

‘Candidates should be honest and reliable with a positive approach, have an ability to work as part of a team and be willing to learn new skills. They must also be aged 18 to apply,’ explains a police spokesperson.

You will have to face both physical and mental tests to assess your suitability and, while very few, some occupations aren’t compatible such as careers in the armed forces.

‘Commitment to any sort of voluntary work would enhance a student’s CV. Being a Special Constable displays an interest in helping others as well as putting something back in to the communities the officer lives in,’ says a police spokesperson.

Prospective candidates should look at their local force website to establish the method of applying in that force, and that force’s entry requirements

‘For anyone thinking of being a Special Constable stop thinking and get an application form it really is the best decision I ever made, my life has changed so much for the better,’ advised Justin.

Further information

• Police recruitment

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