Devon & Cornwall Police seek new volunteer officers as Specials share why they serve

Devon and Cornwall Police are appealing for new recruits to join their Special Constabulary, a team of volunteer police officers who give their spare time to help keep communities safe.

Known as Volunteer Police Officers (VPOs), these Specials hold the same powers as full-time officers – from making arrests to conducting crime-prevention patrols – while balancing their policing role with day jobs, family life or studies.

The tradition of Specials goes back nearly two centuries, with the Special Constables Act of 1831 first giving volunteers powers to support regular officers in times of unrest. Today, they remain a crucial part of modern policing across Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Special Constables are often seen patrolling town centres at night, helping keep communities safe from antisocial behaviour, or supporting major operations such as rural crime initiatives and road safety campaigns.

Special Chief Officer Ashley Frayling said:

“Currently our Special Constabulary is made up of 184 VPO’s. We're looking for honest, respectful, selfless and motivated people who want to do something worthwhile in their spare time. It’s an incredibly rewarding role that requires only 16 hours of your time each month.”

For many volunteers, the role offers a chance to give something back to the communities they live in. One Exeter-based Special, who has combined her role with working in education for the past five years, described the experience as “life-changing”.

“You see a different side of your community – and you realise how much difference a visible presence can make. I’ve supported vulnerable people late at night, helped calm situations before they escalated, and worked alongside dedicated officers who’ve taught me so much. It’s an experience I’ll never forget.”

Another Special, a father-of-two from North Devon, explained why he volunteers:

“I wanted my children to grow up knowing their dad was doing something positive. The police can’t be everywhere, but giving just a few hours a week means I can be part of the solution. My day job is in IT, but when I put on the uniform, I’m proud to represent my community.”

Recruitment now open

Recruitment for new Special Constables is currently open and will close on 5th October 2025. Successful applicants receive full training, uniform and ongoing support, preparing them to serve on the streets or in specialist teams.

Volunteers from all walks of life are encouraged to apply. As the force explains, no two shifts are ever the same, whether it’s helping with house-to-house enquiries, supporting accident investigations, or simply offering reassurance to someone in need.

Apply online here: https://recruitment.devon-cornwall.police.uk/