Special Constable 2024/25

Do you want to experience something unique?

Are you ready for a new volunteering challenge?

Would you like to contribute towards something of real value?

We are looking to recruit individuals to the Special Constabulary. This is a vital area of policing where dedicated volunteers contribute towards keeping our communities safe, and in return, experience something very exciting, rewarding and often life changing.

Special Constables have the same powers as regular police officers, wear the same uniform and equipment, and perform the same role on a voluntary basis. They undertake a wide range of police duties and provide a vital link between the police and the diverse communities that we serve, helping us to meet policing needs and increase the public’s confidence in the police service.

Special Constables are expected to provide a high quality of service at all times. They are quick-thinking problem-solvers, team players who communicate well, and have the ability and resilience to cope with the unexpected. They are committed and enthusiastic individuals who demonstrate the utmost levels of integrity, fairness and respect, work in line with Policing Code of Ethics principles, demonstrating, public service, courage, respect and empathy.

Special Constables are attached to the five districts working with both Response and Neighbourhood Policing teams. Their work in the community involves carrying out high visibility patrols, making arrests and dealing with anti-social behaviour. They attend public events such as galas and concerts, support regular officers with call handling, and assist with other matters such as crime prevention, taking crime reports, witness interviews, enquiries, youth diversion and transport. Special Constables play a very real part in reassuring the public.

For those who meet these high standards and are appointed to the Special Constabulary, we will provide full initial and on-going training in order to gain knowledge of the law and develop a wide range of skills and responsibilities.

Initial training will take place at Carr Gate Police Training Centre and is delivered on alternative weekends face to face and one evening session per week (remote training) for 27 weeks. On successfully completing the initial training you will be attested as a Special Constable and continue with your development and training whilst aligned to one of the five districts.

Our Special Constables are required to volunteer a minimum of 16 hours per month, which usually equates to two 8-hour shifts (with some enjoying it so much they work more), meaning the role can easily fit around a regular job. You must be at least 18 years old to apply. There is no upper age limit, but you must have a good level of fitness and be able to pass the physical fitness test and a medical examination. Further information about the role, eligibility and the application process are available at West Yorkshire Police. To apply, you will be required to complete an application form. If you meet the initial eligibility criteria, you will be invited to take part in an online assessment process, then a fitness test. Following success at this stage you will be invited to attend an interview.

We would especially welcome applicants who already have fulfilling careers and are considering volunteering as a “Career Special Constable”. We have a diverse group of people that work as Special Constables, some of which we are proud to say have been with West Yorkshire Police for 38 years or more.

We have courses starting throughout this year and into next. Our advert will remain open for the foreseeable future.