Vacancy Information
In spite of the challenging times we find ourselves in, our Special Constables (volunteer police officers) have continued to dedicate their time to helping us keep our communities safe.
Since lockdown began in March 2020, our Specials have volunteered over 7,500 hours; which reflects their ongoing commitment to the public of Surrey.
We are now planning for the year ahead, during which we are aiming to grow our Special Constabulary to provide even more volunteer support to frontline policing.
So if you are looking for a unique and rewarding volunteer role and would like to join us within the next 6-12 months, then this is the perfect opportunity for you!
The Role
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 our local communities 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.
Key Responsibilities
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.
Skills & Experience
We are looking for individuals who have the drive, determination and willingness to learn to become a Special Constable.
You will need to have good communication skills and be able to think laterally to solve problems, often under pressure. You will encounter a wide range of challenging situations, and must be able to deal with conflict and interact with victims and members of the public calmly and confidently.
To become a Special Constable you will need to demonstrate that your values are aligned to our Police Code of Ethics and further information about this can be found here:
https://www.college.police.uk/What-we-do/Ethics/Ethics-home/Pages/Code-of-Ethics.aspx
Please note that due to the nature of the work of the Special Constabulary there are a number of occupations that are incompatible with the Office of Constable and persons holding these occupations cannot have their applications considered. These include the following:
Justices of the Peace; clerks to the courts; licensees; certified bailiffs/court warrant officers; members of private security organisations including security guards and door supervisors; private detectives and enquiry agents; serving members of Her Majesty’s Armed Forces (although military reservists may be appointed subject to certain conditions); traffic wardens; prison officers; police community support officers; members of the Crown Prosecution Service.
Contact Details
If you have any specific questions about becoming a Special Constable, please contact us via email specials@surrey.pnn.police.uk
Additional Information
Applications will only be accepted by clicking the 'Apply Now' button. CVs are not accepted as part of our recruitment process.
Diversity Statement
Surrey Police and Sussex Police are committed to providing quality in the service we deliver, the career opportunities we offer our people and to increase the diversity of our workforce to reflect the community we serve.
We value diversity and inclusion and want to attract the best people for the roles available, regardless of age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex, disability, social status and religious beliefs.
We want to do all we can to encourage fair and inclusive opportunities, helping us to ensure that all individuals are properly supported and represented.
We are committed to the elimination of unfair discrimination and we are determined to ensure that all our employees receive fair and equitable treatment.
We are particularly keen to hear from applicants who are from different ethnic backgrounds and experiences.