Special Constable Martin

I’m a Long Haul Scheduled Airline Captain and have been volunteering as a special with Kent Police for two years. Usually, I manage to do four days a month with Dover Local Policing Team (LPT) and one day a month with Dover Community Policing Team (CPT).

Why did you choose to join the Special Constabulary?

Previously I have been a retained firefighter and a lifeboat crew member, but over the years, house moves have meant living too far from the call-out points to continue in those roles. The Special Constabulary offers me far more flexibility in where I live and work, greater flexibility in offering my available time and a wider diversity in roles, working with a variety of police units. As a special constable I enjoy the constant challenges and I can provide far more support to the regular police and directly to the wider community. I enjoy the greater face-to-face contact with the public than I experienced previously, and I take satisfaction from often being able to resolve issues for victims and witnesses.

What experiences or training have you valued most?

In general, dealing with vulnerable people from all walks of life, who have found themselves in situations where police officers can support them and have a significant impact on their wellbeing and safety. More specifically, being able to use some of my experiences, such as in firearms and bomb disposal, or local area knowledge to take a lead or support regular officer colleagues. I am waiting to enrol on the Standard Driver and Drone Operator courses.

Are there any skills or key experiences that you've been able to transfer over from your day job into the Special Constabulary (SC)?

There are several transferable skills from my day job to being a SC, such as effective teamwork, problem solving, analysis, decision making and radio and personal communications. I have also found that skills gained through life experience have helped me, mostly gained in the military and the RNLI. I have used skills and experiences such as situational awareness, leadership, navigation skills and organisational skills in my SC roles.

How have you benefitted from being a SC?

I now have a much deeper understanding and awareness of vulnerable people. I have been fascinated by the broad spectrum and diversity of the people in my own community who I have met as a special constable. I have witnessed significant problems that so many people face in their normal lives. As a result, I have become more patient and understanding. Equally, I have learnt potential warning signs of danger or risk that some individuals might display.

How has your employer benefited from you being a SC?

My employer has strong commitments to communities and charities. They actively support volunteer roles including the Special Constabularies. Part of my regular job is leading a team and communicating with members of the travelling public. My leadership, confidence and communication skills have all improved through the regular practice I get as a special constable.