Volunteers' Week: chair thanks Specials for their 'invaluable contribution'

6 June 2025

Dyfed Powys Police Federation chair Delme Rees has praised the Force’s Specials for their ‘dedication, selflessness, and commitment’.

Delme marked National Volunteers' Week (2-8 June) by thanking them for giving up their time to serve and protect their communities.

He said: “Our Specials make an invaluable contribution to policing in Dyfed Powys.

“They display dedication, selflessness, and commitment in giving their valuable time to help and support the Force and the public.

“And they also bring with them experience and expertise that we may not otherwise have, which can only make the Force stronger.

Contribution

“In return, they’re able to learn new skills to take back to their professional or personal lives.

“They make a huge difference, and their contribution is greatly appreciated.”

Figures from the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) show that in the year ending 31 March, 2023, there were 6,841 special constables in England and Wales volunteering 1,932,895 hours.

It’s almost three years since a campaign by PFEW to allow Specials to become Federation members successfully resulted in a change in the law.

Specials

It means that Specials are entitled to membership and to receive support and advice from the Federation, including through misconduct proceedings and post-incident procedures.

Delme said: “The change in law was not before time.

“Our Specials work alongside regular officers and there may come a time when they need the help of the Federation. It’s only right that they can turn to us for that support.

“And if there are any Specials who are not members, then please do consider it.”

READ MORE: Copped Enough - now is time for change.