Cambridgeshire branch chair Liz Groom has welcomed a move to allow Special Constables to join the Federation.
Liz said it would enable Specials to have access to the same representation, support and advice as their regular colleagues.
She said: “The commitment that Specials have shown during this crisis has been amazing. They’ve played a huge part in the response and have really demonstrated their value to the Force.
“We’re delighted we will be able to welcome Specials into the Federation family and to offer them the support and protection they need and deserve.”
Under current legislation, Special Constables in England and Wales are not allowed to be members of the Federation.
But the Police Powers and Protections Bill which is set to come before MPs later this year will seek to allow Specials membership of the Police Federation of England and Wales.
In a blog, Dave Bamber, professional development lead for the national Federation, said the change was not before time.
“I’m delighted that, following discussions with the Home Secretary and other Government officials to facilitate a change in law, Specials will be included as part of the Federation’s remit in the Police Powers and Protections Bill, expected this autumn,” he said.
“This inclusion will allow Specials to receive the same representation as full-time police officers, and allows the vital work that they do to be officially recognised. I am delighted we will be able to give Special Constables the protection in the workplace that they so richly deserve.”
Dave added: “Time and again during the COVID-19 pandemic I have been impressed and humbled by the way in which Special Constables have stepped up and worked alongside their full-time colleagues to serve the public when they needed it the most.”