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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Serve your community as a Volunteer Police Officer, tackling crime and supporting safety.
- Company: Join Northumbria Police, a family-oriented force dedicated to community safety and support.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, free travel, gym access, and discounts with the Blue Light Card.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while gaining valuable skills and networking opportunities in policing.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a passion for community service and a commitment to training.
- Other info: Start date aimed for February 2026; comprehensive training provided over 17 weeks.
What it takes is already in you
Volunteer as a Special Constable with Northumbria Police
\”Being part of Northumbria Police means you\’re part of a family that looks after and supports each other. We are all about keeping people safe and fighting crime, and if that\’s something you can be a part of, we\’d be delighted to receive your application.\”
Are you ready for a challenge that\’s truly rewarding? Want to take your irst steps into Policing? Volunteer Police Officer (or Special Constable as they are known in the force), is an opportunity like no other You\’ll serve your community, develop new skills, and be part of something bigger.
Our Special Constables are vital members of the Northumbria Police team, bringing diverse experiences and perspectives that strengthen our force and support the people we serve.
To start your application process – Sign up for a online information event by clicking on your preferred date below:
Thursday 8th January 2026
Wednesday 28th January 2026
Thursday 19th February 2026
Wednesday 11th March 2026
Thursday 2nd April 2026
Wednesday 22nd April 2026
Why Join as a Special Constable?
Becoming a Special Constable with Northumbria Police is more than just volunteering – it\’s a chance to grow both personally and professionally. You\’ll receive the same high-quality training as our regular officers, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to make a real impact. Whether you\’re looking to give back, explore a career in policing, or take on a new challenge, this is an opportunity like no other.
Did you know? Our Special Constables have the same uniform, same powers and same impact as our regular officers
Programme Highlights
Start date:
29th August 2026 (aimed date, not guaranteed)
Initial Training Commitment:
Comprehensive, immersive training held at Coach Lane Campus designed to equip you with the foundational skills required. The training will be held over an 17-week period, made up of Saturdays (8am to 4pm) Thursdays (6pm to 8pm/10pm) and some Sundays.
15-week programme:
Special Constable training is currently a blended approach of classroom-based training, pre-recorded sessions and live online sessions which you log into from home. The course will involve training in: Professional Standards, Self Defence, First Aid, ICT, Legislation, Powers, Policies and Procedures and more.
After successful completion of your training, you will be expected to work through a portfolio, demonstrating your competency in different areas of the Special Constable role – once complete, you will have demonstrated that you can carry out the role safely and lawfully, and will be given a level of independence.
We Offer:
- Excellent Development Opportunities:
Build self-confidence, sharpen your communication skills, and gain a deeper understanding of your local community. - Flexible Volunteer Hours:
Fit your volunteering around your lifestyle with shifts that work for you. - Fantastic Networking Opportunities:
Work with people from diverse backgrounds and officers with varying levels of experience. - Free Travel:
Enjoy free travel on the Tyne and Wear Metro network*. - Access to On-Site Gyms:
Stay fit and healthy with access to our in-station gyms. - Blue Light Card:
Save money with discounts at major retailers, hotels, restaurants, and online stores. - Special Volunteering Events:
Take part in events that celebrate and recognise your contributions to Northumbria Police.
You will also have the opportunity to attend additional training and specialise in areas such as Neighbourhood Policing and Motor Patrols.
How to Apply
- Attend an Information Events:
Visit our website
to book your place at an upcoming online information event to learn more about the role. You\’ll hear directly from our recruitment and training teams, as well as current serving Special Constables, who will share their experiences and insights. It\’s also a great opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the role and what to expect.
2. Research:
Invest some time in completing your research and find out more about the
application process
,
eligibility requirements
and
benefits
. Allowing you to learn more about life as a volunteer at TeamNP.
3. Application:
After attending one of our information events, you\’ll receive an email inviting you to begin your application. As part of the process, you\’ll be asked to provide personal and professional details, disclose any previous cautions or convictions, and upload clear photos of any visible tattoos.
4. Application Review:
Your application will be reviewed, and if accepted, we will guide you through the next steps.
Recruitment Steps:
1) Northumbria Police:
- Attend Online Information Event
- Submit Application
- Application will be reviewed
2) College of Policing:
- Complete National sift
3) Northumbria Police:
- Attend Interview
- Conditional offer
4) Pre-Employment Checks:
- Medical
- Job-related fitness test
- Vetting
- DNA & fingerprints
Final Offer
At Northumbria Police, our diversity is our strength. We draw on our differences in who we are, what we\’ve experienced, and how we think. We protect and serve everyone and therefore believe in including everyone. We welcome applications from suitably qualified individuals from all areas of the community, as appointments are based solely on merit.
If you have any questions about applying for the role of Special Constable, please contact the Talent Acquisition Team at
Terms and Conditions:
- Vetting Level:
Recruitment Vetting (RV); Applicants must be UK residents for a minimum of 3 years to ensure successful vetting checks. Offers are dependent on vetting clearance and medical information - No start date is guaranteed:
The August 2026 start date is an aim, but confirmation of your start date is contingent on successfully completing all stages of the application process. Should you be unable to start in August, you will progress towards the next available intake.
Volunteer Police Officer (Special Constable) 2026 employer: Northumbria Police
Contact Detail:
Northumbria Police Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Police Officer (Special Constable) 2026
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to attend the online information events hosted by Northumbria Police. This is your chance to hear directly from current Special Constables and recruitment teams, giving you valuable insights into the role and what they are looking for in candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the values and mission of Northumbria Police thoroughly. Understanding their commitment to community safety and support will help you align your motivations with theirs during the application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former Special Constables if possible. They can provide first-hand experiences and tips that could give you an edge in understanding the role and expectations.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the recruitment steps by familiarising yourself with the vetting process and medical checks. Being aware of these requirements will help you gather necessary documents and information ahead of time.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Police Officer (Special Constable) 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Attend an Information Event: Before applying, make sure to attend one of the online information events hosted by Northumbria Police. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the role, ask questions, and hear from current Special Constables.
Research Thoroughly: Take time to research Northumbria Police and the Special Constable role. Understand the responsibilities, training commitments, and benefits. This knowledge will help you tailor your application and demonstrate your genuine interest.
Complete Your Application Accurately: When you receive the invitation to apply, ensure that you provide all required personal and professional details accurately. Be honest about any previous cautions or convictions, and upload clear photos of any visible tattoos as requested.
Prepare for the Review Process: After submitting your application, be ready for the review process. If accepted, you will be guided through the next steps, so keep an eye on your email for further instructions and stay prepared for potential interviews.
How to prepare for a job interview at Northumbria Police
✨Understand the Role
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand what being a Volunteer Police Officer (Special Constable) entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities, training requirements, and the impact you can have on your community. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Commitment
Demonstrate your commitment to serving the community during the interview. Share any previous volunteer experiences or community involvement that highlight your dedication to helping others. This will resonate well with the values of Northumbria Police and show that you are ready to take on the challenges of the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle difficult situations. Think about how you would respond to various scenarios related to policing and community safety. Practising these responses will help you articulate your thoughts clearly during the interview.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, be prepared to ask insightful questions about the role, training, and the team culture at Northumbria Police. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the position is the right fit for you. It also demonstrates that you are proactive and engaged in the conversation.
