Expression of Interest - Special Constable; Volunteer Police Officer

Overview

Our Special Constables are volunteer police officers from all walks of life who dedicate their valuable spare time to policing their local communities in Surrey. The hours you volunteer will make a real difference to the public of Surrey as you will help us to reduce crime - and the fear of crime - across the county, whilst gaining unique experiences that you are unlikely to encounter elsewhere.

In spite of these challenging times, our Special Constables (volunteer police officers) continue to dedicate their time to help us keep our communities safe. During the first lockdown (March - July) they volunteered over 14,500 hours, reflecting their ongoing commitment to the public of Surrey and helping us to ensure that Surrey is a county that is safe and feels safe.

As we enter our second lockdown this support continues in abundance. Over the forthcoming months, we aim to grow our Special Constabulary to increase our support to frontline policing. So if you are looking for a unique and rewarding volunteer role, then this is the perfect opportunity for you! Based across each of the 11 boroughs in Surrey, our Special Constables wear the same uniform and carry the same powers and responsibilities as our regular police officers.

To become a Special Constable you will be expected to attend an initial training course twice a week for up to 12 weeks. This course is intensive and incorporates many different aspects of policing and conflict resolution, but once complete you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills you need to begin your journey with us. You will then be expected to dedicate a minimum of 16 hours per month to your special constable duties, volunteering alongside our regular police officers carrying out a range of policing activities.

This minimum commitment will enable you to maintain your operational competence and as you become more experienced in the role, there may be opportunities to specialise within our UAV (drone) team, our roads policing units or public order units. Due to the level of commitment required, you should consider this a long-term volunteer role which will continue to offer new experiences and opportunities.

• Attend the initial training course twice a week for up to 12 weeks.
• Dedicate a minimum of 16 hours per month to special constable duties.
• Volunteer alongside regular police officers carrying out a range of policing activities.
• Potential opportunities to specialise within UAV (drone) teams, roads policing units or public order units.

• Experience policing first-hand.
• Good communication skills and the ability to think laterally to solve problems, often under pressure.
• Ability to interact calmly and confidently with victims and members of the public.
• The drive, determination and willingness to learn to become a special constable.

• We will reimburse any travel expenses you may incur whilst volunteering.
• Recognition schemes in place to formally show appreciation for your service.