The unsung heroes of Greater Manchester Police

The Special Constabulary at Greater Manchester Police (GMP) is made up of volunteer officers who give up their spare time to assist with policing across local communities.

The volunteer officers are known as Special Constables and are a vital part of the police service, helping to prevent crime and interacting with the diverse communities across Greater Manchester.

Specials undertake five months of training before they are attested and given their police authorities, which are the same as a regular police officer, including warrant of arrest.

Training then continues for 12-24 months, until they are signed off as ‘Independent Patrol’ qualified.

The minimum requirement for the volunteers is 16 hours a month and many fit this in alongside full time paid employment.

Since the COVID crisis, the Specials of GMP have gone above and beyond, donating on average 17 hours a week.

The total weekly commitment from GMP’s Specials equates to 50 full time officers; a monumental effort from all involved.

Chief Superintendent Stuart Ellison said: “The skills and experience that Special Constables often bring are invaluable to GMP.

"They play a vital role in policing Greater Manchester and helping build relationships, which only makes our communities stronger.

“Each recruit has their own personal reasons for volunteering, and it’s always great to hear how each Special wants to make a difference.

“The fact they volunteer in their own time is commendable, and it’s great to see their dedication and commitment to supporting GMP, and even more so during these uncertain times.

"The hours and dedication since lockdown commenced is commendable, and the support they are providing is invaluable.”

Chief Officer of the GMP Special Constabulary Mike Walmsley said: “Specials wear the same uniform, attend the same incidents and face the same risks that paid colleagues do.

"In the current climate, you could understand people not wanting to put themselves on the frontline.

"What we have seen from our officers is a consistent commitment to serve our communities, regardless of the risks and continue to help keep our local communities safe.

“It is humbling to hear the difference that our officers have made, and the significant amount of hours of their own time they are giving up to support colleagues in these uncertain times.

"Whether this is through positive engagement with the public, arresting people who are still intent on committing crime or attending COVID related incidents.

“I would also like to recognise the families of our officers, who without their support, may have struggled to volunteer such a high amount of hours.”

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