Special Constable Lindsay

Tell us a bit about yourself?

I joined Merseyside Police as a Special Constable in 2011. I was initially based in Liverpool North as part of the Local Policing Team. Most of my career as a Special has been based in Liverpool. I was also the Special Sergeant in the Roads Policing Department for several years.

I am currently the Special Inspector with responsibility for all Specials based with Response and Resolution and Specialisms (Roads Policing, Safer Roads Team and Liverpool John Lennon Airport) across the Force. This totals around 50 Specials.

In my day job I am a Compliance Manager for a managed ground transport and accommodation provider based in Lancashire.

I am also volunteer with the Scouts as a Group Scout Leader where I manage a local Scout group.

What was your motivation for becoming a Special?

Many people join the Specials with the view to become a Regular or dreamed of being in the Police as a child. This was not the case for me. I wasn’t sure why I wanted to join, other than to ‘give it a go’ as I never really saw me being in the Police.

What is your most memorable moment?

There have been many memorable moments over my career as a Special. However, the most memorable has got to be when I received my Independent Patrol Status and could go out on my own for the first time. I grabbed my custodian and went for a walk around Old Swan and Knotty Ash. I must have walked miles that day! 

Would you recommend joining the specials to anyone who was considering it?

100% - I never thought a career in the Police would be something for me and I wasn’t really sure what to expect when I joined. But what I can say is that after nearly ten years’ service there must be something.

If you are like me and not sure if it is for you – give it a go. Who knows, you may surprise yourself - I know I did!

Did you have any concerns before joining?

I joined that long ago; I can’t remember. If I did, my concerns have gone now – so that must be a good thing!

Have you learned any transferable skills that you have been able to use in either your role as a special or in your regular career role?

Yes, in my paid employment I deal with transport operators such as taxis and coaches daily. I was lucky enough to attend a Taxi Licensing Practitioners course ran by Taxi Licensing at Liverpool City Council. This gave me a better insight in how Local Authorities managed them.

Best thing about being a Special?

Working with amazing people – not only Specials, but also regular colleagues.