ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the governance that holds special constables accountable within policing and compares that accountability to other players within the organisation. Analysis and research reveal special constables feel there is a lack of supervision, mentoring and support in the workplace which might account for poor retention levels within the ranks. There is also a lack of legal representation for special constables that is afforded to regular officers. This creates a risk for those who see their future as using the role of a special constable as a stepping stone to the ranks of a regular officer. A recent increase in the pluralisation of policing and private security could impact on future recruitment to the Special Constabulary as experience before applying to become a regular can be gained elsewhere – as a paid Police Community Support Officer or within the private security sector. Analysis highlights how those within the ranks of the Specials feel underappreciated uncovering a divide between them and the regular officers.
