People looking for an exciting challenge that will give them new skills are being invited to become a Special Constable.
There are more than 400 Specials working with Lancashire Constabulary and a recruitment drive is underway in the east Lancashire area to get more volunteers to join the ranks.
The latest recruitment evening will be held at Clitheroe Police Office, Station Road, at 7pm on Thursday, February 21. The event is aimed at those who wish to become involved in the Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and Ribble Valley areas.
Special Constables are unpaid volunteer police officers who have the same powers as regular police officers and wear the same uniform.
They carry out local patrols, police local events, take part in crime reduction projects and help to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.
Specials are asked to work a minimum of four hours per week in a single shift but working hours are flexible so people can give more time if they wish. No formal qualifications are needed but applicants must be over 18.
Specials coordinator Nigel Walker, who is coordinating the recruitment event, added: “Being a Special gives a fantastic sense of being part of a professional team and the opportunities to learn important skills that can also be used in everyday life. The feeling you are helping individuals and the wider community in all manner of ways gives a real sense of achievement.
“The work for Specials is wide ranging - from general patrol to the policing of serious incidents and large scale events.”
Acting Special Sergeant Paul Shoreman joined the Special Constabulary in 2008. He said: “I had always been interested in police work but also I wanted to challenge myself to see if it was a role I could perform well.
“During the day, I work as a countryside ranger with Lancashire County Council. Being a Special gives a fantastic sense of being part of a professional team and the opportunities to learn important skills that can also be used in everyday life. The feeling that you are helping individuals and the wider community in all manner of ways gives me a real sense of achievement.”
The event will allow people to hear more from other Special Constables and ask any questions they may have. Places are limited, so people are asked to register their interest with Nigel Walker on 01254 353225 or via Nigel.walker@lancashire.pnn.police.uk
For more information visit www.lancashire.police.uk/recruitment/special-constable
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