Special Constables are volunteer police officers who have the same police powers, uniforms and equipment as regular police officers. The only difference’s being Special Constables volunteer their time to help people and communities across Essex and they don't get paid for their police work but they are reimbursed for expenses. This includes costs like travel.
Special Constables are given training and support to prepare them to become a volunteer police officer. They develop new skills, make friends and protect those who live in, work in, study in and visit Essex. Like all Special Constables, Community Special Constables want to help keep people safe. But Community Specials volunteer their time to help the people who live and work in their own towns or parishes.
As a member of the local community, Community Specials know what is going on where they live. They understand the things that matter in their neighbourhoods. They use the police skills and experience they gain from being a Special Constable to support their community. This could be through being on patrol, responding to community concerns, offering advice, or catching criminals. Providing that reassuring presence for those who live or work in your area.
So, if you've ever thought 'I don't see enough Bobbies on the beat where I live' or 'I think I could make a difference to my community' then Essex Police want to hear from you.
You will be given the training and support you need to prepare you in becoming a Community Special. The skills and tools to help you make a difference in your community.
To register an interest and speak to a Special Constables about the role, log onto the Essex Police website and complete the simple register an interest form. Someone will call you back.
Be sure to tell them it is the Community Special Constable role you are interested in.
To find out if there is a vacancy in your area and to read a case study on Special Constable Matt Baker who joined Essex Police as a Special Constable in January 2018 and is now Community Special Constable with Halstead Town Council please click here.
