Police want '˜anyone from plumbers to scientists' as special constables

The #SpecialSide campaign aims to recruit people from all walks of life with the police saying they want ‘anyone from plumbers to estate agents, receptionists to nurses and students to scientists’.

The Force says it aims to better educate members of the public of the work of the Special Constabulary, the differences and similarities between regular officers and Special Constables as well as offer advice on how to successfully apply.

There are currently more than 500 Special Constables working across the Force and with the same powers and equipment as their regular colleagues, Special Constables will continue to play an important role on the frontline of policing.

There are also opportunities to specialise in areas including roads policing and rural crime.

Jason Morley-Smith, deputy chief officer, Special Constabulary, said volunteering as a Special Constable provides rewarding challenges and experiences you will not find in any other role.

“Our Special Constables play an extremely important role policing the frontline across the Thames Valley, supporting their regular colleagues and offering a visible police presence within local communities,” Mr Morley-Smith said.

“The type of work a Special Constable may be involved in varies hugely; from burglaries and road traffic collisions to public order incidents, policing football matches and serious sexual assaults.

“They will encounter situations that don’t exist in any other job, developing skills in leadership, decision-making and communication to name a few.

“I can’t pretend it’s an easy job, but I can guarantee the work is varied, rewarding and enjoyable with no two days the same.”

Visit the Thames Valley Police website to find out more information about working in the Special Constabulary. Join the campaign conversation across the Thames Valley Police social networks using the hashtag #SpecialSide.