Applying to be a Special Constable
Date published: 04 May 2023 07:37Do you want to experience something unique? Would you like to contribute towards something of real value?
Applications are now open to join the force as a Special Constable. Click here to apply.
To allow you to find out more about the role of a Special Constable, we will be holding two recruitment events.
Just like with our regular officers, our Specials need to meet certain requirements. Take a look at our Recruitment Guidance document to see if you meet all of the Eligibility Requirements.
1) Application form
If you have checked that you are eligible to apply the next step is to complete an application form. This is filled in online through our E-recruitment system when we are accepting applications.
2) Proof Reading Assessment
If you pass the application form stage, you will be invited to take a proof reading assessment.
This will be taken online and you will be provided with information on how to access the assessment, which will assess spelling, grammar and punctuation skills.
3) National Sift
Exercise 1 – Situational Judgement Test
You will be presented with 15 different scenarios, which police constables may face in their role. For each scenario you will be given 4 actions and you will need to rate the effectiveness of each action. This exercise is untimed but should take you around 30 minutes to complete.
Exercise 2 – Behavioural Style Questionnaire
You will be presented with 80 statements regarding your typical behaviour and preferences at work. You will need to indicate the extent to which you agree or disagree with each statement. This exercise is untimed but should take you around 20 minutes to complete.
4) Interview
Candidates successful at the proof reading exercise will be invited to an interview. This is a panel interview and will be assessed against the Competency and Values Framework (CVF).
5) Pre-Employment Checks
After the assessment has been completed you will go onto the next stage, which involves several different pre-employment checks. These include the following:
1. Medical forms
You will be asked to complete a medical questionnaire and eyesight form. Once completed you will need to get these forms checked and signed off by your GP/Optician.
2. Medical appointment
Once your medical forms have been received and checked by the Occupational Health Team you will then be invited to a medical appointment. You will be seen by an Occupational Health Nurse, who will complete a series of screening tests, including blood pressure, height and weight, urine, vision, spirometry and lung function. An audiometry test will also check your hearing. You will be told on the day whether you have passed or failed this assessment.
3. Fitness test
Following successful completion of your medical you will then be invited to complete a fitness test. This includes running the multi-stage fitness test (aka bleep test / shuttle run).
4. References
We will be seeking references from your current line manager and other employers from the past five years. You will be sent a form to complete which will require your line manager details and email address'. If you have not been employed for this period and instead have been in full time education we will seek references from your school / college etc.
Your sickness status will be checked regularly during the process.
5. Substance misuse and biometric testing
You will receive an appointment to come for your biometrics taking (fingerprints and DNA). You will also be subjected to a substance misuse test which is carried out by an external company to the force. Your sample cannot be analysed without your consent, so you will be asked to complete a consent form on the day in order to continue with the process.
6. Vetting
Vetting checks will be conducted by the Force Vetting Unit. You will be asked to complete a detailed form and return this to the vetting unit for them to then process your application.