Herts Police values volunteer contributions

If you are searching for a new volunteering opportunity, then look no further.

Hertfordshire Constabulary is currently recruiting Special Constables. A Special is a part-time, voluntary police officer with all the same powers as regular police officers.

Specials come from all walks of life and volunteer their spare time for a minimum of 16 hours a month. They are highly trained and play an essential role in preventing, reducing and tackling crime and keeping the communities of Hertfordshire safe.

Special Sergeant Alex Whittle was awarded Special Constabulary Officer of the Year at the Chief Constable’s Awards ceremony earlier this month.

He was nominated by a colleague for his work in the Special Scorpion Team. They highlighted the exceptional leadership he has provided to his team and wider departments across the organisation.

Alex said: “I’ve been a Special for 13 years now, so to receive this award is a huge achievement for me. I know that it is a very competitive process each year, which speaks volumes to the calibre of my Special Constabulary colleagues. I became a Special as I wanted to serve my community and keep people safe, it’s a role I thoroughly enjoy. I’m really appreciative that Hertfordshire Constabulary is keen to recognise the exceptional work that its volunteers and staff undertake - it’s very encouraging to receive this kind of recognition.

“I’ve been involved in some interesting incidents over my career and hope that I’ve added real value to Hertfordshire Constabulary. For instance, my unit was first on scene at a major incident in Baldock earlier in the year and as a Sergeant it was up to me to provide initial incident ground command, until I could handover to an Inspector.

“I’ve also been heavily involved in conducting warrants for drugs and other illicit items as part of my role. Being a Special is incredibly rewarding and a volunteering role like no other. I can learn new skills which I am able to use in my day-to-day life and my regular employment so it’s extremely beneficial. I give my time to do this but receive some great training and skills in return. I would recommend becoming a Special to anyone!”

To find out more information, or to apply, please visit: Hertfordshire Police - Special Constables (hertspolicespecials.co.uk)

From left: Special Superintendent Mike Allardyce, Special Sergeant Alex Whittle, Chief Constable Charlie Hall and Special Superintendent Joanne Reay.