Special Constable
South Yorkshire Police
Do you want to experience something unique, and contribute towards something of real value?
Would you be willing to make a real difference to your local community South Yorkshire?
We are now looking to recruit individuals to our special constabulary.
Our special constables are voluntary, part-time police officers, with the same, full policing powers as regular officers, who work in some of the most important areas of modern policing.
As a special constable, you would undertake a wide range of police duties, provide a vital link between the police and the diverse communities that we serve, helping the Force to meet policing needs, and increase the public’s confidence in the police service.
We have a strong family spirit amongst all our staff and our special constabulary is an integral part of the extended policing family. As a community-based force, we value the contribution that our special constables make, both to South Yorkshire Police and to the local community.
Joining the special constabulary will open up a world of opportunity for personal and professional advancement. Undergoing a full training programme and then going out on patrol makes a welcome break from day-to-day life, bringing excitement and challenge with every day you volunteer.
As a result, our special constables discover new things about themselves and the depths of their capabilities.
We ask that our special constables volunteer a minimum of 16 hours per month, which usually equates to two 8-hour shifts (with some enjoying it so much they work more), meaning the role can easily fit around a regular job. You must be at least 18 years old to apply. There is no upper age limit but you must have a good level of fitness and be able to pass the physical fitness test and a medical examination.
We would welcome applicants that already have fulfilling roles and that are considering volunteering as a “career special constable”. We have a diverse group of people that work as special constables, some of which we are proud to say have been with South Yorkshire Police for many years.
For those officers who commit the time and dedication, there are many opportunities available, as many of our special constables go on to become special sergeants, inspectors and beyond.
For more detailed information relating to the role, skills and experience for this role, please click here to view the role profile.
On application all applicants:
- Must be 17 or above at the time of application, however you will need to be 18 before appointment
- Have resided in the UK for three continuous years immediately prior to application
- Must be either a British citizen, a citizen of the EU or other states in the EEA, or a Commonwealth citizen or foreign national with indefinite leave to remain in the UK
- Must not be a current or previous member of a proscribed terrorist organisation or group
Appearance & Standards:
South Yorkshire Police is committed to striking a proportionate balance between self-expression and the need to maintain role sensitive professional standards in dress and appearance. Officers, staff, and volunteers of South Yorkshire Police are permitted to have tattoos visible whilst on duty provided the tattoo is not considered to be unacceptable or otherwise inappropriate. Tattoos will be reviewed as part of the recruitment and selection process.
South Yorkshire Police’s overarching aim is to deliver an excellent police service to support safer communities. The public’s assessment of our excellence is influenced by the level of trust and confidence in us, as an organisation and as individuals. In comparison to the general public, police officers and police staff are held to a higher standards of behaviour and accountability. In applying to join the police, applicants are accepting of these higher standards and understand the implications on their right to privacy.
South Yorkshire Police’s Key Values:
At South Yorkshire Police we have 3 key values which run through everything we do Fairness, Integrity & Trust, the attached document details the key behaviours we expect all employees to adhere to.
For further information, please visit our eligibility criteria & FAQ’s pages on the web site.
Contact:
For further information about the role, please contact: David Macleod on 07747 641198
Diversity & Inclusion:
Applications are particularly welcome from female and ethnic minority candidates.
It is really important to us that the department represents the community we serve, in order for us to provide the best service, utilising a range of backgrounds, experience and skills. We support and value all officers and staff and the unique experiences they bring to the role. We strongly encourage and welcome applications from these valuable underrepresented groups.
If you are from an underrepresented group and want to find out more about the support we can offer, please contact our dedicated team on positiveaction@southyorks.pnn.police.uk
In addition, we will look to support anyone who requires Part Time/Job share working hours.
Closing Date: 30th June 2026
Information Events :
We are holding two in person information events, please find details below. Please note that you do not have to register to attend. Attendees are also welcome to bring a family member or friend should you wish:
Tuesday 2nd June 2026
7pm - 8pm
Carbrook House, Sheffield, S9 2EG
Thursday 4th June 2026
7pm-8pm
Robert Dyson House, Rotherham, S63 7EF
We are also holding four online presentations, please find details below. If you wish to attend one of these please email David Macleod with your name and which date you wish to attend, you will then be provided with the link (David.Macleod@southyorkshire.police.uk) :
Thursday 11th June - 7pm
Monday 15th June - 7pm
Wednesday 17th June - 7pm
Thursday 25th June - 7pm
Documents to Review:
For the Police Staff Recruitment Vetting Handbook - Please Click here
For the FIT Values of South Yorkshire Police - Please Click Here
View our recruitment video:
