What are ‘Specials’?

'Specials' is the nickname for the Special Constabulary. Specials are trained by their force, and volunteer a minimum of four hours per week of their spare time. They have the same powers as regular officers, and wear a similar uniform.

Who can apply to be a Special Constable?

Anyone who is willing to give his or her time and energy is welcome to apply to be a Special. Specials come from all walks of life; current volunteers include people from a variety of backgrounds including office workers, taxi drivers, homemakers, builders, secretaries and hairdressers.

What do I gain from being a Special?

As a Special, you'll discover a lot you did not know about yourself and just how much you are really capable of. You'll develop self-respect and self-confidence, and you'll earn the right to feel pride in having played your part to make your community united and stronger in the fight against crime.

Whether you've tried to apply before or just want to get a feel for what it's like to work with the Police, joining the Specials is a good way to gain valuable experience, make contacts, and find out if a career in the Police force is right for you.

What requirements do you need?

The basic requirements are:

• You must either be a national of a country within the European Economic Area or, if not, have leave to remain in the UK free of restrictions
• You must be at least 18 years and six months old
• You should be in good health, and of good character
• You must be able to speak and write English competently
  

What sort of duties can I expect to be involved in?

Duties vary force by force and day by day. Specials often find their duties include foot patrol, tackling anti-social behaviour, offering support to officers after accidents or incidents, enforcing road safety initiatives, conducting house-to-house inquiries, and providing security at major events. Specials can also give talks about safety and crime preventions at local schools and businesses. They will form an integral part of neighbourhood policing teams.

Are Special Constables paid?

No. While you will not be paid for your work, your uniform will be provided for you free of charge, and you will be reimbursed for any expenses.

How many hours’ duty will I have to work?

The Special Constabulary requires a minimum of four hours work per week, usually in a single shift. Cambridgeshire Special Constabulary initially asks for eight hours a week. All Specials can put in more hours if they wish.

Does being a Special make it easier for me to join the regular Police Force?

The Special Constabulary does give you a good insight into what a career in police work might be like. However, recruitment requirements for regular police officers are different, and being a Special is no guarantee that you'll meet the requirements for becoming a regular officer.

Is there scope for promotion?

Yes, the Cambridgeshire Special Constabulary has various ranks and corresponding insignia and epaulettes to denote them.
The ranks are as follows:

• Force Commandant
• Assistant Force Commandant
• Special Superintendent
• Special Inspector
• Special Sergeant
• Special Constable

Can I drive a police car?

As an officer progresses into stage three of their training, and provided they are successful in the completion of the police driving test, they will become eligible to drive certain police vehicles. Specials are not allowed to use blue lights or sirens.