Police need special constables in Pickering (From Gazette & Herald)

Police need special constables in Pickering

10:11am Wednesday 5th September 2012 in News

A CAMPAIGN which began earlier this year to recruit special constables throughout Ryedale and North Yorkshire is now focusing on Pickering as there have been fewer applicants there than expected compared with other areas of the county.

Ryedale police chief Insp Andy Everitt said: “I am very surprised we have not had more volunteers coming forward to join the ranks of the special constabulary in the district.

“I know that the people from the area are proud of where they live and have a great community spirit so I would like to encourage anyone who has thought about becoming a special to take the next step and apply.

“Having worked alongside specials, I know just how valuable their contribution is to the force and the difference they make to local communities.”

A special constable must be a good team player and have the ability to stay calm in a crisis while also communicating clearly, resolving disputes sensitively and being able to think laterally to solve problems.

Recruits complete a training course at weekends and evenings at venues across the county.

Once they have successfully completed their training, they receive their warrant cards at an attestation ceremony at a magistrates’ court.

They are then expected to carry out at least four hours’ duty a week working alongside regular officers.

They perform duties including dealing with anti-social behaviour, taking reports from victims of crime as well as dealing with motoring offences and taking part in reassurance patrols.

To apply, email specialsrecruitment@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk or phone 01609 789642