Specials set to be allowed to join the Federation

8 June 2020

A move to allow Special Constables to join the Police Federation has been backed by West Midlands branch chair Jon Nott.

Jon applauded the work of Specials during the coronavirus pandemic and said he is looking forward to the day they could be welcomed into the Federation.

He said: “The contribution that Special Constables have been making alongside our members in the response to the coronavirus crisis has been amazing. We couldn’t be more proud of their efforts.

“During this pandemic, just like at other times, they have given up their free time to work alongside our members and face the same dangers as they support and protect our communities.

“It’s only right that they should have access to the same representation, support and advice that their regular colleagues are afforded through the Federation.

“This is a welcome move and we look forward to welcoming them into the Federation family,” he added.

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

However, the Police Powers and Protections Bill, which is set to come before MPs later this year, will seek to change that.

In a blog for the Federation, the national Federation’s professional development lead, Dave Bamber, 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.”

Delegates at the 2014 Police Federation national conference voted in favour of Specials being allowed to join the organisation. But the Home Office ruled this out in 2016.