Our excellent Specials – join us and start writing your story!
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Earlier this year we told you how we were on the hunt for people to join us as Specials.
As part-time volunteer police officers, Specials have all the powers of regular officers but get to fit it around their existing job and other commitments.
They also have the chance to learn more about themselves through regular continuous professional development and training. One such event took place in November and was attended by Detective Chief Inspector Helen Waite.
Below she reflects on the session, what makes a good Special, and how they have a key role to play in the force. She said:
“I had the pleasure recently of joining a training event for our Special Constabulary officers. The enthusiasm and commitment was inspiring, and I’m really proud these officers are representing us.
“I’ve always been in awe of the people who give up their time as a Special - dealing with many of the same difficult and traumatic issues and putting themselves in danger, all for free and at the cost of their own personal and family time.
“It takes a dedicated and passionate personality to do this at all, let alone alongside other professional commitments as so many of them have.”
There’s a common misconception that as volunteers, Specials have fewer powers and abilities, but in fact they have all the same powers and abilities as a regular officer. Specials can commit to as little as 16 hours per month, though many choose to do more – enjoying the chance to gain new experiences while playing their part to protect their communities from harm.
Looking to the future, we’re considering new ways to use our Specials – whether that’s targeted patrols, supporting specialist operations, making civil interventions or helping with hotspot policing.
One thing is clear, Specials have a key role to play in the future of the force.
DCI Waite added:
“We need to focus on attracting the best people to join us, and make sure they’re given the recognition, support, CPD and access to technology to perform their roles.
“We’ve already got a great bunch of people and I’m looking forward to developing their skills further to support our commitment to proactive work to increase police visibility, engage with communities and prevent crime.”