Special Constables
All the answers
What about my personal safety?
You'll always be working alongside regular police officers, not on your own, so you can depend on their support. Even so, we provide thorough training from how to diffuse situations to self-defence. We'll make every effort to ensure you're at as little risk as possible and equipped to deal with anything that comes up.
How will I fit training around my other commitments?
We are well aware that there are other commitments in your life, be it family, job, both or more. We will do our best to make sure you have all the time you need to complete the training properly, and give you all the support we can. In fact, your other commitments make you more like our existing special constables.
How does volunteering make me more attractive to employers?
You'll come equipped with unique experiences and a skill-set that is useful in almost any market, and which almost any employer can draw on to make their business more successful. Since the job market is highly competitive, and likely to remain so for some time, any edge you can offer in terms of employability will be valuable to you and your future boss.
Where will I be stationed?
When you apply, you'll be asked which of the county's nine districts you'd like to work in. You could be posted to any station within your chosen district, either initially or later in your service, however your preference will always be respected whenever possible.
Although the majority of your duties will be performed from your base station, special operations within your district or the county may occasionally require you to report elsewhere.
How long is my probationary period?
12 months. At the end of this period, you'll be appraised by your special inspector and sergeant. And upon successful completion of your probation, you'll be presented with a certificate and you can then patrol unaccompanied.
Should it become apparent during your probation that you're having difficulty in particular areas, additional support and training will be provided to assist you in achieving independent patrol status.
What is the minimum monthly duty requirement?
16 hours a month, of which at least eight hours must be spent on routine patrols (although this doesn't apply to the Specialist Criminal Management roles). However, during your main holiday month and periods of prolonged sickness, this requirement is obviously relaxed.
Other periods of absence, such as study leave for professional examinations, can be agreed with the special inspector.
How is my progress monitored during my probationary period?
Your progress will be carefully monitored by your special sergeant and special inspector. Accurate records are maintained for all duties performed, documents submitted, training sessions attended etc, and these statistics are reviewed by your supervisors at regular intervals.
What training do I receive during my service?
All special constables are expected to attend continuation training sessions. The frequency of these vary from one district to another, but they are usually held in the evening at a local police station. Attendance at these sessions is particularly important for those officers in their probationary period. If you're unable to attend a training session, you should inform your line manager in advance.
Can I work with specialist departments?
Yes. During your probationary period you'll be encouraged to gain a comprehensive insight into the police service, and to this end you'll be asked to perform duty attachments with a scenes of crime officer, a dog section officer, enquiry officer, traffic officer and other specialist officers.
The timing of your attachments will be decided by your supervisors, and will take into account your level of experience to date.
Do I have to buy any uniform or equipment?
No, all uniform and equipment is provided.
You may only carry or wear uniform issued to you by stores. The only exception to this is footwear; boots are provided, but you may prefer to purchase your own footwear (which must be suitable in design and construction). You cannot, however, reclaim the cost of purchasing your own footwear.
What happens if I am required to give evidence in court?
You'll receive adequate training in court procedure and presenting evidence, and will be notified well in advance if you are required to give evidence. Any loss of earnings which result from attending court will be reimbursed.
Are there prospects for promotion within the Special Constabulary?
Yes. Vacancies arise throughout the county from time to time and are advertised in General Orders, which is published electronically every week and can be viewed on the force's intranet.
If you meet the criteria for the advertised post, you can request a promotion application form. Short-listed applicants will be invited to meet a promotion interview board.
Can I apply if I have a tattoo?
On the whole, yes. However some tattoos may be deemed offensive or unacceptable. If you are concerned, please email a picture of your tattoo to our recruitment team at policerecruitment@herts.pnn.police.uk for advice.
How quickly can I reapply if my application is not successful?
If you are not successful in your application, you can reapply to Hertfordshire Constabulary six months after the date of your assessment centre day, providing that we are still recruiting at that time.
What's the pass mark for Hertfordshire constabulary?
To be successful here, you will need to achieve the minimum pass rate for each of the sections at the assessment centre.
What is the retirement age at Hertfordshire Constabulary?
The current retirement age is 65; however we do recognise the contribution that people with the right skills can make to the organisation, regardless of age. If you're approaching 65 or are indeed over 65, please feel free to email us at policerecruitment@herts.pnn.police.uk to discuss your application.
Am I ineligible if I have a criminal record?
Not necessarily. Depending on the nature of your conviction, it may still be possible to apply successfully. Remember, any caution or conviction must be declared on your application form. If you're not sure whether you're eligible, please email our recruitment team at policerecruitment@herts.pnn.police.uk and they will be able to advise you.
We hope this page has helped answer your queries, however please feel free to email us at policerecruitment@herts.pnn.police.uk where we will be happy to respond to any additional questions you may have.
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