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I have been a Special Constable for 39 years,16 of which as a Chief inspector for the Wirral area of Merseyside.
I used to be a Machine Woodworking Lecturer in a Further Education College for 35 years before I decided to retire at 60. I now work part time in B&Q as a customer advisor in the Building/Hardware Department where I can advise customers on all aspects of DIY. I am also the ‘Peoples Forum’ representative for my store and for 21 other stores in the North West Region.
I spend a lot of my time in Liverpool John Moores University at careers fairs, volunteering fairs and giving students mock interviews representing Merseyside police.
I am also actively involved with the new special recruitment days were the new applicants have their biometrics taken, take part in a group discussion, an individual assessment and complete the fitness test (Bleep Test)
I decided to join the Specials because when I was 16, I tried to join the cadets but failed the eyesight test. As the cadets were not allowed to wear glasses back then I was told to re-apply for the regulars later down the line, but I decided to complete an apprenticeship instead.
Some years later I saw an advertisement for the Special Constabulary and decided to apply to see what being a police officer was like and to help the community where I live. I believe I now have the best of both worlds as I really enjoy helping people and passing on my knowledge to new recruits.
When I was on duty for the 1997 Aintree Grand National which was evacuated due to a bomb scare. I completed a 22-hour shift on the Saturday and a 13-hour shift on the Sunday so a long weekend but definitely something different and one I will remember.
I would certainly recommend joining the Specials as it is a great way to help the community and support the police. It is a very rewarding public service where you can encounter various incidents to stretch your skills and knowledge.
I would also advise anyone if they are considering joining the regular force in the future as it will give you a taste of what it is like so you can decide if it is for you.
The transferable skills I have gained are communication and learning how to deal with conflict and being firm but fair to help de-escalate a situation. I have also improved my leadership skills including how to delegate when necessary.
My confidence has certainly improved since becoming a special which has also helped me in my teaching career. I have been able to give advice to victims of crime regarding home security and repairs from a break in.
The best thing is being able to give something back to the community by helping people in their time of need. I believe being a special you can perform a valuable voluntary role at a time that suits you and have a career at the same time.