Federation prepares to welcome Specials

28 June 2022

The Police Federation is preparing to welcome Special Constables to its 139,000-strong membership for the first time after a change in legislation.

Specials will be given the opportunity to join the organisation from 1 July and will enjoy the greater legal protection and representation membership will bring.

Welsh affairs lead Nicky Ryan said she was looking forward to working with new members from the Special Constabulary.

Nicky explained: “This change to accept Special Constables into the Police Federation has been a long time coming while we have waited for legislative change and we are pleased that they will soon be able to do so.

“With the new Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 coming into force from 30 June, Special Constables will now be able to sign up for membership to receive support and advice from elected workplace reps who have received full training on Police Regulations.

“We welcome the change in the law which enables them to do so and very much look forward to working with them and representing their needs in the future as they stand shoulder to shoulder with their full-time colleagues.”

Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) Special Constabulary lead Dave Bamber said: “Specials play a dangerous and difficult role in society, and they need support in the workplace to ensure they are treated fairly and not disadvantaged and the Federation will be there to offer that support.

“From a Special Constabulary point of view, the law change is a really big indication of acceptance within the police family and the Federation wishes to embrace them as well.”

National chair Steve Hartshorn has also welcomed the historic moment in the Federation’s history.

He said: “It is a real privilege to be able to welcome volunteer members of the Special Constabulary on behalf of the Federation, the National Board and the National Council in being able to join PFEW for the first time in our history.

“They have a long and rich history of serving society. They are appreciated by members of the public for assisting our regular police officers or at times leading in the protection of our communities.”

“Special Constables bring their own unique set of life skills into policing. It is only right that they have the same protection, support and experience as their full-time colleagues when they need it.

“As members, they will have access to Police Federation services and the support of trained and accredited Federation reps, our legal service providers and other experts who have experience in representing officers. They will also have access to many other benefits provided local and nationally by the Police Federation network across England and Wales.

“I would encourage the Special Constables who are interested in joining as members to contact their local Federation reps, local branch board or visit the Police Federation website to learn more.”