To mark National Volunteers’ Week (2 to 8 June), branch chair Liz Groom has hailed the ongoing impact made by Specials across the country to help sustain policing.
The UK’s Special Constabulary dates back almost two full centuries to 1831, when it created a support system of voluntary cops which has been in practice ever since.
According to the Home Office, 70 Specials were active in Cambridgeshire Constabulary as of March 2024, with 5,818 recorded across England and Wales.
And Liz was full of praise for this continuing legacy, saying: “It really is an incredible part of our profession’s heritage, to know volunteers have been supporting the Force for all these years.
“I don’t think we can ever highlight Special Constabulary enough for what they give to our Force – they help to keep our communities safe on a daily basis.
“But awareness weeks such as this one are a good time to take a pause and really appreciate what Specials actually do. They give so much of themselves – their time, effort and energy – to policing and asking for nothing in return.
“They are truly remarkable people, and they deserve all the recognition around.”
Liz also spoke of her pride at having Specials included in the Federation’s membership, which has been possible since a new Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act was passed in 2022.
This change in law happened thanks to a campaign driven by the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW).
“I think we have always felt lucky for the existence of Specials in the police, but now, as branch chair, I feel even more fortunate and honoured to represent them,” she continued.
“I hope our members who are part of the Special Constabulary feel welcome in our Federation, and know that should you ever need us, we will be there for you.
“On behalf of the branch, I would like to thank you for everything you do – it certainly doesn’t go unnoticed by any of us here.”
If you know anyone who may be interested in volunteering as a Special in the Force, they can visit the Cambridgeshire Constabulary website for more information.