Cambridgeshire’s Special Constables are set to be able to access the wealth of support and advice provided by the Police Federation following a long-running campaign.
The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill, which passed its second reading in Parliament last week, includes provision for Specials to subscribe to the Police Federation for the first time.
Cambridgeshire Police Federation branch chair Liz Groom today welcomed the progress saying “it’s right and proper” Special Constables receive the same Federation representation and support as regular officers.
Liz said: “For almost a decade now, the Federation has been campaigning for Specials to have access to our services and support, so we’re delighted to be able to welcome them to the Federation family.
“We have seen that, time and time again, they’ve stepped up to the mark to work on the frontline of the pandemic alongside full-time officers.
“They give up their time freely and face the same dangers as our members so it’s only right and proper they should have access to the same representation, support and protection as their colleagues from the Federated ranks.”
Joining more than 130,000 regular constables, sergeants, inspectors and chief inspectors as Federation members, Specials will be able to receive support and advice from elected workplace reps and will also be able to call on expert advice and representation during performance and misconduct proceedings.
This will form part of the support package to ensure they know their rights and entitlements and means they will receive the right support if any workplace issues are encountered.
As Federation members, Specials will for also the first time be able to apply for legal assistance in criminal, conduct and civil cases as well as gaining access to Member Service offers.
The national Federation’s Special Constabulary lead Dave Bamber said: “Nobody has ever really fully represented the Special Constabulary regarding regulations or formal negotiations. Nobody has been on the side of Specials during conversations with key decision-makers – and now the Federation will be. It is a really proud moment for the Federation and a historic move.
“It is only right Specials receive the same legal protections, support with workplace grievances and negotiations over conditions as their regular counterparts.”
The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill is expected to continue to progress through Parliament before becoming law later this year.