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Special Constables

Police Scotland
VO74962

The role is diverse but demanding. You could be doing anything from policing a football match to assisting at a road accident. Special Constables also police major sporting and public events and provide an excellent bridge between the Police Service and the public, representing both the community within the police service and the police service within local communities.
Specials come from all walks of life and the role can suit those who are able to commit the time to volunteer alongside their own paid employment. It can also be a way for people to experience the role who are considering it as a future career.
You must meet our essential criteria to join and go through the application process. You’ll receive training that is closely aligned to the content of the initial training provided to Probationer Officers, ensuring you are ready to police your streets.

Experience required

A good all round education, be of good character, ability to keep a clear head, even at the most challenging times. This is a role where who you are is so much more important than where you're from or what your qualifications are. What's really important is to bring commitment, enthusiasm, common sense, confidence, a mature approach and great interpersonal skills.

Travel details

Special Constables are expected to make their own way to the station they get allocated to and will be reimbursed travel expenses for public transport or own car.

Travel expenses

Mileage paid at 36.9p/mile, taxable to normal place of duty, non taxable to places other than normal place of duty. Receipts would be required for public transport.

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Training details

3 intakes per year - 3 weekends locally (Baluniefield, Dundee) followed by a residential week at Scottish Police College, Tulliallan, a further 2 weekends locally, final weekend at SPC, Tulliallan. 1 intake consists of 3 residential weeks at Tulliallan. Training includes Operational Safety techniques and learning legislation

Restrictions

Minimum age: 18
Volunteers must be fit enough to fulfil the role of Constable which involves passing a yearly Operational Safety Training course. Applications can be submitted at 17 1/2 years of age and individuals can be appointed when they reach 18.

Availability

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Frequency & commitment

Specials currently need to commit to a minimum of 96 hours per year, which would equate to around 8 hours per month although many specials do more. It is up to the individual to nominate when they want to come out on duty, we just ask that it is booked in advance of the intended shift. The minimum hours in a tour of duty is 4 up to a maximum of 10.