Cumbria Police Celebrates 195 Years Of Special Constabulary Service
Cumbria Police is celebrating 195 years of volunteer policing, recognising the dedication of Special Constables who have supported communities across the county for generations.
To mark the anniversary, Special Constables gathered on the West Walls steps in Carlisle to recreate a historic photograph originally taken at the same location in 1926. Standing on the steps exactly 100 years after the original image, the volunteers recreated a moment that reflects the long history of the Special Constabulary and its continuing contribution to policing in Cumbria.
The photograph provides a visual link between generations of volunteer officers. While policing methods and responsibilities have changed considerably over the past century, the commitment to supporting local communities remains central to the role of Special Constables.
For almost two centuries, Special Constables have volunteered their time to work alongside regular police officers. Their responsibilities include helping prevent crime, supporting neighbourhood policing teams, engaging with residents and assisting with public events across Cumbria.
Today, volunteers also contribute to policing operations designed to keep communities safe. They bring different professional backgrounds, personal experiences and skills to the role, strengthening the connection between the police and the people they serve.
Cumbria Police says it remains committed to investing in the development of its Special Constabulary. Volunteers receive full training and can access opportunities to improve their skills, gain experience and develop professionally while carrying out their policing duties.
Development opportunities include presentation skills training, Taser accreditation and the chance to work alongside specialist policing teams. These experiences can help volunteers build confidence and gain a better understanding of different areas of police work.
Assistant Chief Constable Bird, the chief officer lead for the Special Constabulary, said the anniversary was an opportunity to recognise the contribution made by volunteer officers throughout the force's history. He described Special Constables as a highly valued part of the policing family who continue to give their time to support communities and help keep people safe.
He also highlighted the range of skills and perspectives volunteers bring to the organisation. The force wants to ensure that people joining the Special Constabulary have access to rewarding experiences and opportunities to develop throughout their time in the role.
Cumbria Police is currently recruiting volunteers, including new Special Constables. The opportunity is open to people interested in supporting their communities, developing new skills or exploring whether a future career in policing could be right for them.
Those who join receive full police training, a uniform and the same police powers as regular officers. The role offers flexible volunteering opportunities intended to fit around existing employment, family responsibilities and other personal commitments.
Employer Supported Policing is another option available to some volunteers. The scheme can help individuals receive support from their employers to undertake policing duties, making it easier to balance volunteering with their regular working lives.
The force says becoming a Special Constable can provide valuable experience in communication, teamwork and dealing with different situations. Volunteers also gain opportunities to work with experienced officers and develop an understanding of how policing operates across the county.
The next Special Constabulary intake is scheduled to begin in March 2027. People interested in applying can find further information about the role, training and recruitment process through the official Cumbria Police website.
The 195th anniversary celebration highlights the contribution made by volunteers across different generations. From the historic photograph taken in Carlisle in 1926 to the modern recreation on the same steps, the milestone recognises a tradition of community service that continues to play an important role in policing Cumbria.
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