Lancashire Police has launched a video campaign to recruit more volunteer police officers into the force.
The video features four different ‘specials’, all of different ages and backgrounds and showcases what it is like to work as a special constable in Lancashire.
The launch of the video coincides with the introduction of online specials recruitment, meaning it has never been easier to join the force.
Chief Inspector Ian Mills, Head of Citizens in Policing at Lancashire Police said: “Specials are people who often do a day job but who volunteer to put something extra back into their local community.
“Our special constables are a valuable resource and work alongside neighbourhood policing teams across the county and also in specialist areas such as drug warrants, safer roads, licensing, border operations and some of the most challenging areas of police work. Over the past six months a new training package has also been introduced which allows training constables to work at football matches.
“We already attract highly committed and enthusiastic people who want to work hard alongside the regular force. They tell us that being a special constable gives them valuable and rewarding experience in a wide variety of skills and experience but we are keen to increase our numbers further.
“Special constables are vital at a time of significant cuts to policing and to help maintain a visible presence on the streets, working with and in local communities.
“Our new microsite now enables applicants to complete a form online, making the recruitment process as quick and simple as possible.”
Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said: “I know there is real passion among Lancashire’s residents to be more involved in policing, and becoming a Special Constable is an excellent opportunity to do that.
“I am very proud of the passion and dedication of our Special Constabulary, and the unique skills they bring to the role. They play an important role in supporting our regular officers, providing the increased visibility the public so desperately want while giving something back to their community.
“I’m committed to seeing more of Lancashire’s residents become involved with the Special Constabulary, and would urge anyone looking for a volunteering opportunity to consider whether they have the skills to offer.”
Special constables receive the same high level training and uniform and have the same powers and authority as regular police officers.
Lancashire currently has 430 special constables and over the last six months they have contributed almost 65,000 hours of policing.
• If you are interested in becoming a special constable, would like to view the video, or to find out more please visit www.lancashire.police.uk. Recruitment events are regularly held across the county.