Meet some of our Special Constables
Paul
“I became a special constable because honestly, I was tired of hearing people say there weren’t enough officers on the streets — and I felt the same. So, I thought, why not do something about it? I saw an ad on Facebook, and I just clicked on the link. I had nothing to lose and everything to gain.
“Since joining, I’ve realised just how varied and rewarding the role is. No two shifts are ever the same — you meet people from all walks of life, and every day brings something new. Whether it’s dealing with emergencies, or connecting with the community, you’re right there making a difference.
“What really surprised me was that special constables are given the same powers and equipment as regular officers — including a laptop and phone. You’re fully equipped and trusted to do the job.
"I split most of my shifts between response policing (999 calls and emergencies) and neighbourhood policing, which focuses more on longer-term community issues. In the summer, we also police at events like carnivals, fireworks displays and other big gatherings — there’s a real buzz to it.
“Over the past year, I’ve worked alongside some brilliant people who all share the same goal: protecting the communities we serve. The media can be quite negative about policing, but that’s never been my experience. What I’ve seen is professionalism, compassion and real teamwork.
“Being a special constable is exciting, emotional, and incredibly fulfilling. The skills you learn stay with you for life — and the difference you make is real.”
Emma
Emma joined the Special Constabulary in 2020 having always wanted to join the police and decided that joining the Special Constabulary meant she could stay in a day job that she enjoyed and have the flexibility of policing around family life and work.
Emma said: “I work for HMRC as a senior tax specialist and I’m used to dealing with people in often challenging situations. I realised that many of the skills were transferable between the roles and that the skills of each role would enhance the other.
“I have worked response shifts, events and neighbourhood policing and embraced opportunities for development within my role.
“I have represented the Force on an action learning set for female leaders which has given me confidence and allowed me to share my skills and experience with partner agencies.”
Emma is convinced the skills she is developing in the Special Constabulary are helping her in her day job.
“I have recently been promoted at HMRC and have no doubt that the confidence and competences I have gathered through my police work have helped me achieve this.
“I love being in the Special Constabulary because I find myself in unique and challenging situations. I’ve gained so many skills and dealing with these situations gives me self-belief and a sense of purpose. I’ve proved to myself what I am capable of and I wish I had known that there is so much flexibility to add something so rewarding to life... and done it a lot sooner!”
