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Special Constables
What is the Special Constabulary? What work do 'Specials' do, and what's it like to be one?
We spoke first to Andy Spencer, a Special Constable with the Cheshire Constabulary.
Why did you first decide to become a Special?
I always wanted to join the Police when I was at school, and joining the Specials was a good way of finding out more about being a Police Constable. It was also a good opportunity to develop myself as a person, especially learning the negotiation skills which are imperative to the policing role. These skills have been transferable to my day job as a quantity surveyor. Being in the Special Constabulary has also enabled me to target issues in my community, help to reduce crime and find out why the crimes are happening.
What does the role entail?
The role is mostly about working within a Neighbourhood Policing Unit (NPU) as part of a Community Action Team (CAT) to police all areas (known as wards) in the town. The main issues for me as a Special Constable are anti-social behaviour and criminal damage, although I would be expected to help out with any issue that I feel needs sorting. The idea is to build a close relationship with the public and work to solve any concerns that they have.
What kind of interaction do you have with the regular police?
I've built up a good rapport with many officers in the Community Action Team. All officers are supportive, as they understand that the 'free spare time' that Special Constables put in is valuable both for them and the community we serve. I meet and email the officers on a regular basis to find out what areas they would like looking at.
What's the best thing about the role?
The best thing about the role is the feeling that you are doing something about the problems in your community instead of just sitting back and complaining. And it's great when I get a 'thank-you' from members of the public for work I've done. Even confiscating alcohol from young people is rewarding, as it prevents a bigger problem later on.
What's the most challenging part of it?
The most challenging aspect of being a Special Constable is dealing with conflict, especially when it's fuelled by drink. However, the training I've received enables me to deal with these situations and help calm things down.
How much time do you put in?
On average I put in between 30 and 40 hours a month, whilst also fitting in full-time work and a MSc degree in quantity surveying. It's challenging, but the work is very rewarding.
What would your advice be to anyone considering applying to be a Special?
Get in touch with your local force or go on the Home Office Special Constabulary website. The best advice I can give is go for it - it will make you a stronger person and will provide you with a wide range of skills to help you through your life.
The role of Special Constables
Mark Cotton, Crime Reduction Advisor with Cheshire Constabulary, explains more about the role of Special Constables.
Why do we have Special Constables?
The Special Constabulary dates back to the 1831 when Justices responsible for an area where 'Tumult, Felony or Riot' had occurred or was likely to occur, were given the power to appoint Special Constables. This arrangement lasted until 1964, when the Police Act allowed for Specials to be attached to regular Forces.
Today, Specials make up about 25% of every Force in England and Wales and are more important to policing than ever.
Has the role changed over the years?
In recent years the role of Specials has been aligned with the Government's national strategy to implement Neighbourhood Policing. This has been a great step forward, as it provides clear guidance about what's expected of Special Constables.
Special Constables are expected to work very closely with their regular community police colleagues, providing public reassurance and dealing with all manner of incidents in the community. Specials also provide valuable support at community events and undertake stand-alone policing operations.
Is being a Special a good way of getting into the regular police force?
Joining the Special Constabulary is a great way of finding out what it's like to be a full-time police officer, as you have all the powers of a regular colleague. Until recently, being a Special Constable provided no direct advantage in the recruitment process to become a regular officer, however the force is trialling a fast track application option for Special Constables. This is open to all Specials, although places are limited.
Is there such a thing, in your experience, as a 'typical person' who becomes a Special?
No way! The Special Constabulary is even more diverse than the regular force. Specials are people from all walks of life and career backgrounds, from car sales to accountancy.
What next steps would you advise for anyone interested in applying?
The Home Office has an official website that gives some really useful information for people who are considering joining. Plus, each force website usually has details of how to join. Alternatively, you can contact the Specials Recruitment Line on 0845 608 3000.
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