The 362 Special
Constables who make up the force in Derbyshire are currently undergoing
training allowing them to work more effectively alongside regular
officers.
They work for at least four hours a week, mainly on Friday and Saturday nights. Each
officer receives seven weekends of training involving, among other
things, basic law and how to deal with anti-social behaviour before
taking to the streets.
The
unpaid role is considered valuable work experience for becoming
full-time officers. A police spokeswoman said "Specials come from all
walks of life, from chefs and bus drivers to photographers and taxi
drivers.They are ordinary people who want to help the community –
people who care." |