"Proud to be a Special": A qualitative study exploring the experiences of Special Constables in the UK

The paper examines public motivations to volunteer as Special Constables and seeks to understand their experiences when engaging in this role. There is little qualitative research examining the experiences of volunteers and yet such literature is pivotal in supporting positive future engagement of a valuable resource. Six currently serving SCs were interviewed. The semi-structured interviews were analysed qualitatively through thematic analysis. Four main themes emerged: Proud to be a Special, Lines of division, Levels of training, and, Mind the gap. The SCs recognised their role as a utilitarian resource with both positive and negative impacts on Regular Police Officers. The findings highlighted the need for a careful balance between having enough SCs to maintain appropriate policing and yet ensuring opportunity for sufficient experience to develop and implement their skills, successful demonstration of which would support more positive working relationships with Regular Police Officers