| 1. |
Will joining the Specials help me get into the regular police force? |
Whilst we are not recruiting regular officers at the moment, the experience gained as a Special Constable can help you decide whether police work might be for you as a full-time role sometime in the future. Joining the Specials would not guarantee you a position as a police officer but you would be able to draw upon your experience to support your application. |
| 2. |
Can I be a member of the British National Party (BNP) or similar organisation? |
The police service has a policy of prohibiting any of their officers or police staff from becoming members of the British National Party (BNP) or similar organisation whose aims, objectives or pronouncements may contradict the duty to promote race equality. If you are, or have been a member of the BNP or similar organisation your application may be rejected. |
| 3. |
What is my purpose and role? |
As a Special Constable, you will be a volunteer drawn from the local community. You will assist the regular force, working as part of a problem-solving local policing team. You will help to gather information about local crime and other issues of concern, working with local communities and partners to deliver solutions. You will perform duties and exercise powers under the supervision of, and supported by, regular officers. In particular you will deliver reassurance policing by being local, visible and problem solving in style. This is a Specials' core function throughout Staffordshire.
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| 4. |
Should I join the Special Constabulary? |
The Special Constabulary is a group of part-time volunteers, requiring a commitment of at least 16 hours per month. Special Constables work alongside regular officers and have the same powers, making this an excellent way to find out about police work. Although it will not guarantee entry to a role as a regular officer, it provides an excellent grounding. |
| 5. |
Will I be assessed on my performance? |
You will be expected to meet a performance standard similar to that of a regular officer. |
| 6. |
What happens if I get injured? |
There is an indemnity insurance for all officers, regular and Special, where the Police Authority provides cover for injury sustained on duty. Officers can also take out additional private insurance at their own expense. |
| 7. |
Will I have to work in the area I live? |
No. Obviously there are areas where the presence of a Special Constable is required, but you will be involved in negotiating where you patrol. |
| 8. |
Will I be able to specialise within a specific area of police work? |
Yes. Currently we have Specials working in child protection and other areas of opportunity are also being explored. Where appropriate, specialist training is given.
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| 9. |
Will I be able to drive a police vehicle? |
After passing a police driving test, Specials may drive police vehicles in certain circumstances, though not for emergency purposes |
| 10. |
What is the recruitment process? |
On receiving your application form we will check that you meet the minimum criteria to be a Special Constable. Where this is the case, you will be invited to attend the Special Constable assessment process. Following success at the assessment process you will be required to attend a Job Related Fitness Test (JRFT). When you meet the JRFT standard you will be issued with a financial questionnaire, a security form and medical history forms to complete. Finally you will be required to attend for a medical examination to assess your suitability to carry out operational duties.
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