2. Benefits, training and information
Being part of the police family means being part of a large and supportive team, opening the door to a variety of opportunities.
As a Special Constable you will gain valuable skills and training that will continue to develop as you progress within the police family. You will meet many new people and build friendships that can last a lifetime. This role will help improve your fitness, challenge you in new ways and allow you to make a real difference in people’s lives by protecting the most vulnerable members of our communities. This can be incredibly rewarding and provide a strong sense of achievement.
You will often be pushed outside of your comfort zone and no two shifts will ever be the same. While the role is not always glamourous, you will always have the support of your team around you.
Training to become a Special Constable is delivered in four modules over 36 weeks.
Module 1
Training starts with a one-day welcome event at HQ, Middlemoor, delivered on a Saturday or Sunday. This is followed by eight weeks of distance learning.
Module 2
Next is First Aid and Public and Personal Safety Training (PPST). This training takes place over four weekends and will be based at HQ, Middlemoor.
- Weekend 1 – First Aid (Sat Sun)
- Weekend 2 – PPST1 (Fri, Sat, Sun)
- Weekend 3 – PPST2 (Sat, Sun)
- Weekend 4 – PPST 3 (Fri, Sat, Sun)
Module 3
Module 3 consists of 10 Weeks of online learning covering all key aspects required for the role.
Module 4
This last module consists of four weekends of classroom and practical scenario training.
Total training is approximately 36 weeks.
For those who live more than 30 miles away from Headquarters, overnight accommodation is provided during the training weekends.
Once you have successfully completed the four modules, you will be formally attested and sworn in as a Special Constable.
Your learning doesn’t stop there. When you begin your operational duties at your designated station, your training and development will continue as you work alongside experienced constables who will support, guide and mentor you as you gain confidence and experience in the role.
Where possible we will always try and post you to your nearest station. However, organisational need is the priority with your home address taken into consideration.
You will be asked to submit a station preference as part of your pre-requisite checks.
As a special constable you will be required to wear full police officer uniform. This includes a helmet, radio, body worn camera, body armour and additional officer safety equipment.
All uniform is provided, including boots.
More on becoming a special constable