Sign up and become a Special Constable, urges South Yorkshire Police

South Yorkshire Police is set to recruit new people to the voluntary crimefighting role.

Last year, specials committed 68,320 hours of support to communities across South Yorkshire, with over 10,000 duties performed throughout the year.

To find out mor0e, people can attend an open evening on Tuesday, January 16, at the SYP Sports and Social Club, Niagara Road, Sheffield, beginning at 6.30pm.

Anyone keen to find out more is advised to watch the website for alternative dates if they can’t attend this one.

Special Constabulary chief officer Stephen Merrett said that the volunteers who become specials have the same powers as regular officers, wear the same uniform and carry the same protective equipment.

Mr Merrett said: “In the past we’ve had applicants from a wide variety of different careers volunteer their time and anyone with an interest is encouraged to apply.

“Specials volunteer a minimum of 16 hours a month to their local force, after a 14-week intensive training period where they gain an understanding of the law and are taught various policing procedures.

“Officers might find themselves deployed to a specific area to tackle a certain issue, or taking part in high-vis patrols, public order duty, or dealing with antisocial behaviour incidents, for example.

“The training is intense and you may find yourself facing some quite daunting situations. As with the recruitment of police officers, the process is rigid and includes an assessment centre, vetting, drug testing and a fitness test.

“As chief officer, I take absolute pride in ensuring that our officers are trained and developed to the highest skill levels.”

To follow what the specials are up to, go to Twitter @SYP_Specials and on Facebook SYP Specials.

Information is alaso available at southyorks.police.uk/work-us/specials/how-become-special.