Public encouraged to thank volunteer police officers this weekend

Police and crime commissioner Dr Alan Billings is inviting the people of South Yorkshire to say thank you to the specials for their hard work and sacrifice to coincide with National Specials Weekend, which begins tomorrow.

This weekend the work of the special constabulary will be acknowledged nationwide and thousands of officers will take to the streets to support police officers.

The specials are the part-time, volunteer section of the country’s 43 police forces and have been in service for 185 years.

South Yorkshire's special constables have worked non-stop throughout the Covid-19 crisis, dedicating long hours and putting their personal safety fears to one side in order to keep communities feeling safe.

Dr Billings said: "I thank the specials for the contribution they make to policing in South Yorkshire and across the country, not least for what they are doing during the time of Covid-19 with its emergency legislation.

"Covid-19 has put great strain on all forces and the willingness of specials to volunteer additional hours at this time is greatly appreciated.

“I know the specials are working flat out to support the police locally and I noted that 15 officers gave over 100 hours during April alone.

“I would also like to thank the families of the specials who support them in their role. I am acutely aware that this involves some sacrifice on their part.

“And I thank those employers who have encouraged specials throughout this time.

“I would encourage anyone interested in becoming a special to do so. It can be a very satisfying and worthwhile way of giving something to the community.”