Dorset Police is launching a new special constable recruitment campaign and is encouraging people looking for a volunteering opportunity and the chance to learn new skills to apply.
Special constables are an integral part of the Force – they are volunteer police officers, who once trained, have the same powers as a regular police officer helping to protect and support the people who live in Dorset.
The Force is looking for individuals with the right attributes to join as special constables and help make Dorset a safe county for everyone. Candidates will need to be able to give at least 16 hours each month and existing special constables are also encouraged to consider transferring to Dorset Police.
The campaign will seek to recruit new and transferee special constables to join in September 2026, with a further intake planned for March 2027.
New special constables will undergo six months of training across weekends and evenings before moving directly into neighbourhood teams to join regular officers and police staff colleagues while continuing to develop and learn.
There is a wealth of information and videos on the Dorset Police website: Special Constables – Who, What, How and Why – Working in Partnership
Acting Chief Officer Ben Deeks said: “This is a really exciting time for the Special Constabulary. Not only will this campaign bring in new people to our fantastic team of special constables, but we are also enhancing our training offer. We have just launched the Special Constable Learning Programme (SCLP), which provides a training and development pathway to all new and existing special constables.
“It is built upon the same foundation as the training delivered to regular police constables, covering topics like law, police powers, public order and investigation, and uses a blend of online, face-to-face and on-the-job learning.
“It also aligns with the new non-degree diploma entry route Police/Detective Constable Entry Programme (PCEP/DCEP) whereby the learning and experience gained under SCLP can be recognised if a special constable decides to transition to a regular police constable role.”
You can find out more about the role of a special constable, eligibility criteria and how to apply by following the link above.
