Cheshire Constabulary Celebrates Volunteers’ Week and National Specials Weekend

Cheshire Constabulary was proud to mark Volunteers’ Week and National Specials Weekend by celebrating the incredible dedication and contribution of their Special Constables and volunteers who give their time to keep our communities safe.

Over the course of National Specials Weekend, more than 100 specials booked on for duty and volunteer police officers gave more than 1000 hours of their own time to keep local communities safe across Cheshire.

The volunteer officers were involved in a number of key operational duties, including high visibility patrols, vehicle checkpoints, arrest attempts for wanted people, fatal 5 enforcement, night time economy patrols and responding to incidents.

These efforts reflect the ongoing commitment of the Force’s Specials to tackle crime, support communities, and be visible where they are needed most.

As part of the Constabulary’s celebrations, a special volunteers’ event was held at the Museum of Policing in Warrington, where volunteers were invited to enjoy a guided tour and receive personal thanks for the vital role they play.

Throughout the week-long celebrations, the Force also recognised nine exceptional Special Constables who have dedicated over 5,000 and 10,000 hours of voluntary service to the Force at an awards evening at HQ. Their long-standing dedication is an outstanding example of the selfless commitment shown by the Special Constabulary every day.

In addition, twelve new Special Constables were officially welcomed to the Force as they were sworn into their roles – a significant moment marking the beginning of their journey serving and protecting Cheshire’s communities.

Assistant Chief Constable, Alison Ross said:

"Our Special Constables embody the very best of public service. They are selfless, skilled, and passionate about helping others. On behalf of Cheshire Constabulary, I want to extend our heartfelt thanks to each and every volunteer who contributes to making Cheshire a safer place.

“As we celebrate the achievements of our Specials and volunteers, we also want to encourage others to consider joining us. Becoming a Special Constable is a rewarding and impactful way to make a real difference in your community, develop new skills, and be part of something truly meaningful. I would encourage anyone who thinks they would like to be part of an extraordinary team, to put in an application."

Special Chief Officer, Leon Boland, said:

“I’m incredibly proud to lead such a dedicated team of Special Constables. Our volunteers give their time selflessly to help keep communities safe, often balancing demanding careers and family lives alongside their policing duties. National Specials Weekend is a fantastic opportunity to recognise and celebrate their commitment, professionalism, and the vital role they play in supporting the force every day.

“I want to say a massive thank you to every Special Constable for your unwavering dedication and service – not just throughout National Specials Weekend, but all year round – you truly make a difference.”

Special Constables are a vital part of the policing family in Cheshire. Volunteering their time alongside full-time officers, they bring invaluable support to a wide range of operations and policing activity, all while holding the same powers as regular officers.