Cumbria Police is celebrating 195 years of the Special Constabulary.
To mark the milestone, Special Constables gathered on the West Walls steps in Carlisle to recreate a historic photograph taken in 1926, standing on the same steps exactly 100 years later. The image highlights both the proud heritage of the Special Constabulary and its continued importance to policing in Cumbria today.
For almost two centuries, Special Constables have volunteered their time to support local communities, prevent crime and work alongside regular officers. Today, they continue to play a vital role across the county, supporting neighbourhood policing teams, engaging with communities, assisting at public events and contributing to operations that help keep Cumbria safe.
Cumbria Police remains committed to investing in its Special Constabulary and ensuring volunteers have access to opportunities that help them develop both personally and professionally. Special Constables receive full training and can benefit from a range of development opportunities, including presentation skills training, taser accreditation and opportunities to work alongside specialist policing teams.
The role provides a unique opportunity to gain valuable skills, confidence and experience while making a positive difference in local communities. Through Employer Supported Policing, volunteers can also receive support from their employers to undertake their policing duties.
Chief Officer lead for the Special Constabulary, ACC Bird, said:
"As we celebrate 195 years of the Special Constabulary, it is important that we recognise the incredible contribution our volunteer officers have made throughout our history and continue to make every day across Cumbria."
"Special Constables are a highly valued part of the policing family. They bring a wide range of skills, experience and perspectives to the role, volunteering their time to support our communities and help keep people safe."
"We are committed to supporting and developing our volunteers, ensuring they have access to rewarding opportunities and experiences throughout their policing journey. Whether you are looking to give something back to your community, challenge yourself, develop new skills or explore a future career in policing, becoming a Special Constable is an incredibly rewarding role."
Cumbria Police is currently recruiting volunteers including Special Constables.
Those who join will receive full police training, a police uniform and the powers of a police officer, while benefiting from flexible volunteering opportunities that can fit around work, family and existing commitments.
Find out more about becoming a Special Constable at: About the specials | Cumbria Police
The next Special Constabulary intake begins in March 2027.