All Special Constables’ fitness is tested during the recruitment process and then annually through the completion of a ‘bleep test’, the College of Policing’s website provides further information about the test and there are various videos online which will show you what to expect.

You will need to maintain an average of 16 duty hours per month over any 3 months period.  There is no set maximum number of hours that you can give however, we have duty of care for you so we regularly monitor duty hours and will speak with you if we feel that you are doing too many.

That’s up to you and when you are available. However, whilst you are in your non-independent phase it is likely that you will be required to align your duties with those of your tutor.

We do ask that you pre-plan your duties so your regular colleagues know when you are going in and can plan accordingly. There will be times when we make contact to invite you to attend operations and events, again, it is up to you what you sign up to based on your availability. 

You will be asked to provide us with your station preferences including any personal circumstances that might affect your posting when you commence the foundation stage. We try to accommodate these preferences where we can however; we have to balance your preference against operational constraints and requirements.

During your initial non-independent phase you will be working with a regular officer or independent Special Constable at all times, once you are authorised for independent patrol you can work alone and alongside PCSOs.

No, the role of Special Constable is a voluntary one.

The minimum hour’s requirement is an average over any rolling 3 month period.

No, you do not need to hold a driving licence.

You may have to attend court as a witness or to give evidence. This may mean that you have to take time off your paid employment if you are required to attend during your normal working hours. You will always receive prior notice and you will be able to claim back any loss of earnings incurred.

All uniform and equipment that you need is provided; you will need to purchase your own footwear but you will receive a £70 boot allowance on the anniversary of your join date and annually thereafter.

We will pay for any of the recommended immunisations that you may need and your travel to and from duty. We can only reimburse expenses once you have commenced initial training; therefore, we are not able to reimburse any travel expenses incurred before your start with us.

There is national guidance around sick pay for Special Constables who are injured on duty.  There is also a nationally provided legal fees insurance scheme which provides cover to pursue legal action for financial compensation for damages relating to personal injury on duty. 

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary does not allow Special Constables to carry tasers or firearms.

Special Constables are subject to the same performance and conduct regulations as full time paid police officers. 

Special Constables should not take an active part in politics.

No but applicants do need to be dedicated and committed to the role.

There is no direct advantage but clearly being a Special Constable will provide a valuable insight into policing and a first-hand experience.

Members of the Special Constabulary are able to join the Police Federation.

Special Constables are able to drive Police vehicles once they achieve Independent Patrol Status and have complete the relevant driver training course.  Special Constables have to apply to go on driver training courses and approval will depend on local operational need.

Yes, Special Constables are able to join specialist units once they have achieve independent patrol status.  There is no automatic right to work on a specialist team; there are a set number of specialist positions available and spaces are advertised when vacancies become available, there is also a competitive selection process to join such teams.