Do you want to become a special?

Sussex Police is recruiting people to become special constables - one of the most interesting ways you can volunteer your time to serve your local community.
Police news.Police news.
Police news.

The police have opened the recruitment window again for accepting special constable applications. The closing date for applications is October 19.

Special constables have the same powers and much of the same training as full-time officers. Playing a vital role in neighbourhood policing teams, these officers can also train to undertake specialist roles, responding to 999 calls and working in the road policing unit.

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Assistant Chief Constable Robin Smith said, “We have more than 400 special constables working with our regular officers in Sussex. Special Constables are an integral part our ‘police family’ giving people the opportunity to get to the heart of the communities we serve.

“Last year, special constables volunteered more than 80,000 hours with us; their professionalism, commitment and enthusiasm is admirable.

“We are looking to recruit special constables across Sussex but I would particularly like to appeal for volunteers who live near Rother, Wealden, Midhurst, Petworth, Selsey, Lewes and Horsham. These locations are currently lacking in volunteers.”

A police spokesman said, “We encourage special constable applicants from a wide range of backgrounds who want to make a difference in the communities they live in.

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“It is important that our workforce reflects the diversity of our local communities so that Sussex Police can continue to improve its service.

“We need people with skills born out of diverse backgrounds and experiences to help us deliver excellence in local policing across Sussex.”

Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne added, “Special constables have been involved in policing Sussex since 1831 and are an integral part of policing in the modern world.

“They are a unique group of people who give their time for free to help keep Sussex safe, and they bring experience and diversity to the workforce.

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“I would encourage anyone who would like to make a real difference in their community to find out more about this volunteer role available with Sussex Police.”

Special constables devote a minimum of 16 hours a month, supporting local police teams, gaining new experiences and skills and learning about many aspects of police work.

In depth training is provided covering the police service, the duties of a police officer, powers of arrest and common crimes, how to prepare evidence for court and personal safety.

To find out more about the Special Constabulary and application process see: /policing-in-sussex/work-with-us/special-constables

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