Special says Taser-training was a ‘no-brainer’ opportunity

27 August 2025

One of the latest Specials to complete Taser training says he has already felt the benefit – and the weight of responsibility – of carrying a device out on the frontline. 

A paramedic in his day job, Special Sergeant Ben Roberts took on another emergency service duty when he joined the Force in 2021.

Currently line managing 10 other voluntary officers, Ben highlighted the importance he places on staying fresh operationally, aided by adding capabilities such as Taser where possible.

“I passed my training last December, and so far, I am very glad I put in the time and effort to get to this point,” he said.

Special Sergeant Ben Roberts.

“I think the chance to be Taser-trained is a no-brainer for Specials – we get called out to the same jobs as regulars, so why shouldn’t we have the same tools at our disposal?

“Of course, you still rely on your professional judgement first and foremost, but it can only be a seen as a boost when you are equipped with a very effective device and the knowledge of how to use it.”

While happy to admit a Taser has helped make his policing life easier in some respects, Ben maintains it is a two-way street when the sacrifices made by the individual officer are considered.

Taser training

“That extra layer of protection is a great thing, but it’s not like it comes for free – getting through training isn’t a foregone conclusion, and even then, the duty only truly starts once you become operational,” he continued.

“Seeing as it was only a few months ago, I can remember exactly how I felt when I began carrying my Taser on shift. I was quite nervous, to be honest, because it’s a firearm at the end of the day.

“I am comfortable with it now, but I’m still aware of how accountable I must be.

“I haven’t used it yet, but I know that if I do, I will have to justify that every time – it’s the same as in my day job, when I have to justify administering a certain drug, for example.

Specials

“So, it definitely works both ways, but that's exactly how it should be.”

Ben, who typically commits 40 to 50 hours a month to West Midlands Police, went on to praise the development opportunities for Specials in the Force as ‘second to none’.

The 26-year-old has also recently become trained in the Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Programme (JESIP), strengthening his commitment to serving the public both through paid work and volunteering.