Specials set to be allowed to join the Federation

10 June 2020

Hertfordshire branch chair Geoff Bardell says ‘it’s right and proper’ that Special Constables receive the same Federation representation and support as regular officers.

Geoff was welcoming a move by the Home Office to allow Specials to join the Federation.

He said: “The contribution that Special Constables have been making alongside our members in the response to the coronavirus crisis cannot be over-stated. It’s been fantastic.

“We have seen the way that, time and time again, they’ve stepped up to the mark to work on the front-line alongside our members, serve our communities and help protect the NHS.

“They give up their time freely and face the same dangers as our members so it’s only right and proper that they should have access to the same representation, support and protection as their colleagues from the Federated ranks.”

Under current legislation, Special Constables in England and Wales are not allowed to be members of the Police Federation of England and Wales.

The Home Office is set to introduce the Police Powers and Protections Bill later this year and will seek to allow Specials to become members.

In a blog, Dave Bamber, professional development lead for the national Federation, said the change was not before time.

“I’m delighted that, following discussions with the Home Secretary and other Government officials to facilitate a change in law, Specials will be included as part of the Federation’s remit in the Police Powers and Protections Bill, expected this autumn,” he said.

“This inclusion will allow Specials to receive the same representation as full-time police officers and allows the vital work they do to be officially recognised. I am delighted we will be able to give Special Constables the protection in the workplace that they so richly deserve.”

Dave added: “Time and again during the COVID-19 pandemic I have been impressed and humbled by the way in which Special Constables have stepped up and worked alongside their full-time colleagues to serve the public when they needed it the most.”