Bedfordshire Police to Host Special Constable Information Workshop

Bedfordshire Police is inviting residents to an information workshop to learn more about volunteering as a Special Constable.

Special Constables are fully trained volunteers with the same powers and uniform as regular officers, contributing their time to patrol streets, respond to incidents, support operations, and engage with the public – often while balancing day jobs and other commitments.

Last year, Bedfordshire’s Special Constables collectively dedicated nearly 18,000 hours of service, with one officer contributing more than 1,400 hours alone.

The workshop will cover the application process, training, expectations, and the variety of opportunities available.

Bedfordshire Police said:
"Joining the special constabulary is an opportunity to contribute something to the community and a chance to make friends and learn new skills, like leadership and negotiating, which are directly transferrable to the workplace."

Police and Crime Commissioner John Tizard added:

"Volunteers give their time, energy and expertise for the benefit of their fellow residents. They are the backbone of our many watch schemes and form the custody visiting scheme to monitor the rights and safety of detainees. Many others support policing in various ways and contribute to local community safety initiatives in their towns and villages."

Special Constables begin with a 15-week evening and weekend training course, learning essential policing skills, law, and personal safety before gaining their warrant card. After training, they work alongside regular officers and may eventually be assigned to response or community teams or specialist units, including roads policing, dog handling, football policing, or airport security.

Attendees are encouraged to wear appropriate sportswear if they wish to practice the fitness requirement during the workshop.

The event will take place on Saturday, 4 October 2025, from 9:30am to 12:30pm at Kempston Police Headquarters.