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Apply to become a Special Constable

Image with navy blue background and words "Apply Now" in a light blue box in the middle.

 

Special Constables are trained volunteer Police Officers who work alongside full time Police Officers, ensuring we keep local communities safe.

As a Special Constable you will have the same powers and responsibilities as your full-time colleagues and where our flexible approach ensures that the role fits around your work, family life and studies.

You are a vital link between the public and the police and we can guarantee that you will learn new skills, whilst making a positive contribution to the service we provide.

You will:

  • patrol neighbourhoods
  • help prevent crime
  • bring valuable skills and experience
  • have knowledge of your local area
  • police major events
  • build strong relationships in your community
  • interact with lots of diverse groups
  • volunteer for a minimum of 96 hours a year.

Skills you need and eligibility

We look for people who come from all backgrounds and have:

  • commitment and enthusiasm
  • common sense and confidence
  • good people skills
  • the ability to stay calm under pressure
  • a focus on community.

You can apply if you:

  • are 18 or over
  • are physically fit
  • have lived in the UK for at least three years
  • meet the national eyesight standard
  • meet our residency requirements.

Residency requirements

You must be:

  • a British citizen
  • an EU or EEA national
  • a Commonwealth citizen
  • or a foreign national with no restrictions on your stay in the UK.

You do not need a driving licence to become a Special Constable.

If your employer is part of Employer Supported Policing, you may get  time off to train and serve as a Special Constable.

Jobs that mean you cannot apply

There are some jobs that mean you cannot apply because of conflicts of interest. These include roles in:

  • fire services
  • security
  • private investigation
  • managing or working in licenced premises or betting shops
  • service members of HM forces.

Apply

To apply to become a special constable you need to:

  1. create an account and register on our job portal
  2. fill in the application form

You can learn more about our recruitment process here or find out about offences which mean you will be rejected. 

If you need any help, you can email us: RecruitmentSpecialConstable@scotland.police.uk

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