The Metropolitan Special Constabulary

“Specials”, as they are normally known, are part-time policemen and women who devote much of their spare time helping their regular police colleagues and members of the public. The work is voluntary and unpaid apart from certain out-of pocket expenses. With the exception of boots and shoes uniform is provided.

Special Constabies have the same responsibilities and powers of arrest as regular police officers, and their duties range from assisting at ceremonial duties such as Trooping the Colour[10] to controlling traffic; from policing football matches or large sporting events to antivandal patrols or assisting with searches and instructing women’s groups in crime prevention and self defence.

An applicant for enrolment in the Metropolitan Special Constabulary must be of British nationality (by birth, naturalised or registered as a citizen of the United Kingdom and Colonies), between 18 ¹/₂ and 50 years of age and be prepared to undergo a medical examination - at no cost to the applicant. Applications cannot be considered from serving members of the Armed Forces, Territorial and Army Volunteer Reservists, members of the Fire or Ambulance services,

the medical, nursing or midwifery professions or a security organisation or private police force.

Once a Special Constable has been attested, he or she attends a training course which lasts for 28 weeks. The course, which is ar arranged at times which do not interfere with a recruit’s

full-time occupation, consists of a series of lectures and demonstrations given by regular police officers. This is followed by practical training on the streets in the company of a regular or trained “Special”. Refresher courses are given from time to time to ensure that “Specials” are fully conversant with new procedures and legislation.

Special Constables receive compensation for loss of wages if injured whilst on duty or when required to perform a duty for which the Special Constable has not volunteered - such as attendance at court to give evidence. While on duty, they are covered in the same way as a regular police officer.

The initial period of service with the Metropolitan Special Con- stabulaiy is three years, but successful applicants can continue serving until they reach the upper age limit of 55 years.

A Special Constable will be attached to a police station in the area of his or her choice. However, all Special Constables are attested for duty within the Metropolitan Police District as a whole and may, therefore, on occasions be requested to undertake duty away from their parent station.

The prevention of crime and the preservation of law and order are among the most important community services of our time. The Metropolitan Special Constabulary makes a positive and valuable contribution in achieving these aims.

Дата добавления: 2015-08-17