A new recruitment campaign for special constables has been launched in Sussex.

Sussex Police has a team of specials who come from all walks of life and fit their volunteer work around full-time day jobs and family lives.

Special Constable Julie Rainey has a busy full-time job as regional communications manager for the RNLI, but that doesn’t stop her devoting her weekends to volunteering with Sussex Police.

“She plays an active role in our specialist Safeguarding Investigations Unit, protecting the most vulnerable individuals from harm and exploitation. Having worked for the National Crime Agency and HMIC, Julie brings valuable knowledge to the force. Her dedication to ‘going above and beyond’ in this demanding role, recently won her an award for services to public protection,” says a spokesman for Sussex Police

Julie added: “To be able to support victims at what is often the most difficult time of their life is a genuine privilege.

“Volunteering in policing has given me a much greater understanding of the lives of other people.

“You come to realise both how fortunate you are and also how difficult life can be.

“I strongly recommend finding the time to volunteer as a special constable. Being part of something bigger which ties you to your community is a great feeling. Do it!”

Watch a video about being a Special Constable by following the link below…

Special Constables wear the same uniform, receive the same training and have the same powers as regular officers, the time they give to the force – a minimum of 16 hours a month – is voluntary.

Once trained, a variety of opportunities are available for specials to progress within the organisation. Following training, there is the opportunity for people to undertake a variety of different roles in the force, including safeguarding investigations and prevention.

Head of Specials Jackie Connor MBE said: “As a special constable you will make a real difference to the people of Sussex by helping to reduce crime and keeping people safe.

“You have the same powers as a police officer, wear the same uniform and have the opportunity to give something back to the community you live in.

“Being a special constable is a challenging and rewarding role and through a full training and mentoring programme you will be joining a team where you will learn valuable new skills and gain experience in a unique role.”

If you have the judgement to make quick decisions, are confident to be the first person to the scene of a crime, have the compassion and empathy to help those in need and the resilience to serve the community, then volunteering as a special constable could be for you.

Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne OBE said: “I have always been a huge advocate of the benefits of volunteering and helping to make a difference in your local community. This is why I am delighted that recruitment is open again for special constables.

“I am incredibly appreciative of the commitment this unique group of people make by giving their time for free to help keep Sussex safe.

“I have met many cohorts of specials in my time as PCC and I know first-hand the importance of this role and the wealth of experience and diversity that they bring to the workforce.”

Recruitment opens November 25th. You can apply here. To read more about the role and to see frequently asked questions, please click here.

Have you listened to The Hastings Podcast yet? Follow the link below…