All the answers
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. 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.
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