Special Constable (Volunteer Police Officer)

Volunteer. Protect. Make a Difference.

Are you ready to take on a unique and rewarding challenge? As a special constable, you’ll volunteer alongside our police constables to help fight crime, protect the public and build trust within our communities. This is more than just a volunteer role - it’s a chance to make a real impact while gaining valuable skills, experience, and a sense of pride that comes from serving others.

Please note: Following your initial training, we ask for a minimum commitment of 16 hours per month. This is a long-term voluntary role; we encourage all applicants to consider the time and dedication required before applying.

Chief Constables' Message

We really welcome your interest in joining our Police Force. It is a privilege to lead the teams in Surrey Police and Sussex Police who continuously work selflessly and tirelessly in order to keep people in our counties safe. We are looking for talented and inspirational people who put the needs of the public at the heart of everything that they do and who want to make a difference. If you feel you are that person then we want to hear from you. We wish you all the very best with your application. - Chief Constable Tim De Meyer & Chief Constable Jo Shiner

The Role & Key Responsibilities

Our Special Constables are volunteer police officers who come from all walks of life, but they share one thing in common: a commitment to making Surrey safer. 

Whether you're looking to give back to your community, gain unique life experience, or explore a future in policing, this is your opportunity to step into a unique voluntary role. 

Policing Your Community

Our special constables are based across all eleven boroughs of Surrey and within specialist teams. Special constables wear the same uniform, hold the same powers and carry the same responsibilities as our regular (paid) police officers. 

There’s no such thing as a “typical” shift. You might:

• Respond to 999 emergency calls
• Patrol local neighbourhoods
• Conduct house-to-house enquiries
• Preserve crime scenes
• Present evidence in court

It’s challenging, unpredictable and incredibly rewarding. 

The hours you volunteer will make a real difference to the public of Surrey, and you will gain unique experiences that you are unlikely to encounter elsewhere.

Training and Development

To prepare you for the role, you’ll complete a 14-week training course, which includes:

• One evening session per week
• Alternate weekend sessions (Saturday & Sunday)

The course is intensive and covers everything from policing powers to conflict resolution. Once complete, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and skills you need to begin your policing journey. You’ll then be expected to volunteer a minimum of 16 hours per month to maintain your operational competence.

As you grow in experience and confidence, you may be invited to develop additional skills within such as UAV (drones), roads policing and public order.

This is a long-term volunteer role, so please consider the time and dedication required before you apply.

What skills do I need?

We are looking for individuals who demonstrate the commitment, integrity, and resilience required to serve as a special constable.

Successful candidates will demonstrate

• Effective communication skills, enabling clear and professional engagement with members of the public
• Sound judgement and problem-solving ability, particularly under pressure
• Capacity to manage conflict constructively, maintaining composure and control
• Confidence and reliability, with an ability to approach diverse scenarios with professionalism and empathy

There are several key criteria you'll need to meet before becoming a special constable; these can be found in our Special Constable Recruitment Guide.

Special constables are afforded the same legal powers and responsibilities as paid police constables. Accordingly, they are held to the same high standards of conduct and public service. All candidates must demonstrate values that are consistent with the principles outlined in our Code of Ethics which can be found here.

Why Work With Us?

We take pride in looking after our volunteers, through volunteering you will have the opportunity to:

Experience policing first-hand

Meet new people and teams

Learn and develop your skills

Support your local community

We will reimburse any travel expenses you may incur whilst volunteering and we have recognition schemes in place for us to formally show our appreciation for your service.

As a Special Constable with Surrey Police you will have access to financial and mental well-being guidance and support, discounts for everyday spend, our on-site gyms and a range of sports clubs. Volunteering with us will also allow you to apply for other voluntary and paid positions within the Force.