Eligibility

To be a Special Constable you must be:

• at least 17 years of age (and must be 18 years of age before appointment as a special constable).
• a British citizen or a citizen of a country that is a member of the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland. Commonwealth citizens and foreign nationals are also eligible to apply but only if they are resident in the UK with indefinite leave to enter or remain in the UK or EU settled status
• in good health and reasonably fit
• of good character
• a Norfolk resident or work within the county of Norfolk
• Must have a full car driving licence (B)
• Must be able to attend the weekend training sessions at Hethersett Training School
• Must not hold an employment where it includes the service of alcoholic beverages, whether on-premises or off-premises consumption, this includes but is not limited to, bars, pubs, wineries, night clubs, restaurants where alcohol sales or service constitute a primary or significant portion of the role.

Height and eyesight

There are no height restrictions, but you do have to meet our vision standards. When you apply, you will receive a form that you will need to take to a qualified optician for completion and return.

Additional restrictions

Please see the College of Policing guidance notes for additional restrictions on occupations that are not compatible with also serving as a special constable.

Further information

If you would like further information about the specials, please email us or check out the College of Policing website.

If you are employed

You must tell your employer that you have applied to become a special constable. This helps them support you if you need time off, for example to attend court.

If your job changes during the application process, or any information you provided at the time of completing your application changes, you must let us know as soon as possible.

Roles that may not be compatible

Some roles are not compatible with being a special constable because of conflicts of interest or legal restrictions. You can find examples of these roles below.

If you are unsure whether your role may be affected, contact us before applying and we can talk it through with you.

• Security and enforcement roles
• Legal and justice roles
• Immigration, border and customs roles
• Traffic, transport and local authority enforcement
• Policing and related roles
• Prison and armed services
• Emergency services and public roles
• Politics and youth or social work