The selection process is as follows:
- Application Form
- Assessment Day including:
- Written test
- Situational Judgement Test
- Interview
- Final Interview
If you are successful at assessment and final interview then you be invited to take part in a:
- Medical appointment
- Drug Test
- Fitness Test
If you are successful at the fitness test stage, you will be offered a position on the next Special Constable's course, subject to satisfactory references and security checks.
Application Forms
Application Forms are currently paper-sifted on competency-based behaviours.
Applicants must be 18 at point of application. There is no minimal education standard.
Special Constables must complete documentation to a high standard, so make sure that your writing is legible and your spelling and grammar acceptable.
Please ensure that you complete the personal statement, giving a full written account evidencing your skills, achievements and any other relevant information.
On receipt of your application, it will be marked and character checks will be undertaken on you and your close family (please remember to include maiden names, dates and places of birth and current addresses for all family members).
Assessment Day
The assessment day is held at Police Headquarters and consists of the three elements below. If unsuccessful at assessment, you cannot take the tests again for 6 months.
1. Written Test
2. Situational Judgement Test
3. Interview
What might I be asked?
- Why do you want to be a Special Constable?
- What do you think the role of a Special Constable is?
- What qualities/experience do you have that will make you suitable?
- What are the local problems?
What can I do to prepare?
- Visit your local station and speak to Special Constables about what they do.
- Find out what the local policing problems are and local priorities.
Medical and Drugs Test
Upon successful completion of the assessment day, we will invite you to attend a medical appointment. This will be conducted on a weekday. A questionnaire will be sent to you prior to your appointment for completion and submission. You will also be required to take a drugs test.
The Eyesight Test
You will be required to visit your optician to have your eyes tested before your medical.
If you wear spectacles or contact lenses check out the eyesight standards on
Want to become a police officer? | Join The Police (joiningthepolice.co.uk) or give us a ring for further information.
Fitness Test
The fitness test is held at Meadowfield, Durham, on another pre-arranged day. This is the final stage of the recruitment process.
Please visit Want to become a police officer? | Join The Police (joiningthepolice.co.uk) for further information on the fitness test.
For further information regarding current special constables recruitment contact:
HR services direct dial: 0191 3752123
Email: Human.Resources@durham.police.uk
Training
Induction
After appointment, the officer is invited to attend an induction day at Force Headquarters, held on a Saturday or a Sunday. An introduction is given into the role of a Special Constable.
Basic Training
The Special Constables IL4SC Training Programme is a modular training schedule designed to prepare you for your role as a Special Constable.
You will also receive instruction on self-defence and the use of CS/Pepper spray, ASP baton and Quick Cuffs.
For further information on training please contact:
Alison Bostock
Special Constables Training and Development Officer
Edwardson Road
Meadowfield
Durham
DH7 8RL
Telephone number: 101 extension 6612696
Email: Alison.Bostock@durham.police.uk