Newly recruited WMP Special Constables prepare to go on the beat. The first batch of 50 newly recruited WMP Special Constables are almost ready go on the beat across the West Midlands as they approach the end of their intensive 16 week training course. To mark National Specials Weekend, which aims to highlight the work of Specials in local communities, West Midlands Police has released a video of the new recruits being put through their paces. The short video (captured over a period of four months) provides a snapshot of the commitment given by 16 dedicated community members, aged between 19 and 40, who’ve already clocked up more than 138 hours of training. From using police radios and caring for victims, to first aid and physical learning – the combined elements of classroom and practical exercises ensure the new recruits are ready for life on the thin blue line. Specials play a key role in local policing and have the same powers in law as regular police officers, including the power of arrest. They volunteer at least 16 hours a week on top of their day jobs – with many doing much more. Deputy Chief Officer Mike Rogers, said: “This training programme for new Specials has been overhauled to ensure the recruits are fully-equipped to deal with the varied challenges of modern policing. I know they’re excited, keen to get out and eager to make a difference by putting the public first in everything they do. The group are counting down the days until they’ll be joining the hundreds of other volunteer officers and I’m looking forward to welcoming them to the family. The West Midlands Special Constabulary is going from strength to strength and the team will be out this weekend, as always, supporting regular officers on the beat and responding to calls from the public. With more of our officers in specialist roles than ever before – such as on the motorway with the Central Motorway Police Group and in Force CID, investigating serious crime – never has the Special Constabulary played such a crucial role in fighting crime.” National lead for Citizens in Policing, Deputy Chief Constable Michael Banks, added: “Specials are an invaluable policing asset and with the right investment and training will continue to play an increasingly important part in protecting our communities. The National Specials Weekend is an opportunity for communities to engage with police which builds trust and helps to prevent and detect crime.”
Posted on: Sun, 06 Apr 2014 10:42:28 +0000