Central Scotland Police

Recruitment

A special role in our communities - The Special Constabulary

Central Scotland Police welcomes volunteers to take up the role of Special Constable - a post which plays a vital part in both the Force and your own community. Specials have provided assistance to Britain's Police Force's since the 19th century. The time and commitment provided by those who give up their time to take on the role is valued by the Force.

With the same powers and same uniform as regular Officers, a similar range of opportunities to serve the public is available as a volunteer Special Constable. You'll carry out the same variety of police work at the heart of our operations in the communities we serve.

Download the Special Constable application form.

Who can become a Special Constable?

All kinds of people join Central Scotland Police as a Special. We're interested in your values and commitment - in who you are, not what you are. The role's very much about you - your enthusiasm, your commitment, your attitude to life.

The recruitment process for Special Constables is similar to that of the regular Force. It's thorough but fair, and it makes sure the communities we serve get the quality of service they demand and deserve from their local Police Force. We don't ask for formal qualifications, but you'll need to be educated to a reasonable standard. An interest in police work is a must, and you need to be at least 18 years of age, physically fit and have the ability to keep a clear head, even at the most challenging times. You must be a UK resident and have spent the past 3 years living in the UK.

Is anyone excluded?

It's important, of course, that you are available for duty and have no interests or employment that conflict with the role. Members of the Fire Service, for example, are considered unsuitable as they are regularly called to work unexpectedly. Employees of security organisations, private investigators, managers or employees of licensed premises or betting offices are also considered unsuitable. If you are involved in politics or a serving member of Her Majesty's Armed Forces you may also be considered unsuitable for a Special Constable role.

What about training?

You will undertake a 12 week training course on Tuesday & Thursday evenings at Police Headquarters in Stirling with 5 training sessions occurring on Sundays. You will be given all the support you need as you learn about the police service, the duties of a Police Officer, road traffic and criminal laws, court procedures and giving evidence. You'll also receive training in officer safety techniques, police powers and legislation, gathering and preparing evidence, scenes of crime, radio procedures, powers of arrest, detention and search and community issues.

What's in it for me?

The work is voluntary with any reasonable out-of-pocket expenses reimbursed. Police uniform is issued as standard but you will have to provide your own footwear. The real reward comes from the experience. As well as learning unique new life skills you'll be building on the relationships we've established in our communities - with a big say in ensuring they are safer places for people to live and work in.

Application process

We have a different selection process for Special Constables. Applicants are invited to an Assessment Evening, followed by an Interview and Medical. The process is similar to the appointment of a regular Police Officer, you would be required to undertake the Standard Entrance Test, but not a Fitness Test. Further information is available through the Recruiting Unit or Special Constables Coordinator

Download the Special Constable application form.