Concern over shortage of special constables
Number of volunteer cops patrolling streets falls sharply
02.08.2017 The number of volunteer cops helping to police the streets has plummeted by more than half in three years.
Figures released following a Freedom of Information request revealed that the number of special constables in K Division – which covers Renfrewshire – had dropped from 63 in 2013 to just 29 in 2016.
The findings have been described as a “huge concern” by members of the Tory party, who submitted the FOI request to Police Scotland.
Nationally, the stats found that there were 1,300 special constables on the beat across Scotland in 2014.
That number dropped to just 810 two years later – the latest year for which figures are available for the country.
Special constables are volunteers who wear the same uniform as regular police officers and have the same powers and responsibilities.
They are often called upon to assist in all areas of police work including patrols, community engagement, specialist operations attending incidents and royal visits.
Ye s t e rday , the Scottish Conservatives raised concerns over the drop in special constables.
A spokesman for the party, said: “These figures are a huge concern, especially in light of planned cuts in police officer numbers as well.
“Special constables have been described as crucial by those in Police Scotland, not only helping to carry out key duties, but also providing an important link between the police and communities.
“With our police workforce under increasing strain this support is more important than ever, but in just a few years, hundreds have left the force.
“This should be raising alarm bells within Police Scotland, and efforts need to be made to discover why so many are leaving.”
Police Scotland said: “It is understood a number of special constables were “inactive” and have been removed from the register.
“If an officer has been inactive for a period of time, we will have a discussion with them and ask them to reflect on their position.”
The Scottish Police Authority added: “There is a continuing place for special constables and it is one route for people considering policing as a career.”