Specials get to grips with training

A new intake of special constables were at North Yorkshire Police headquarters, Newby Wiske, on Saturday 23 June 2012, where they were training ahead of going on the beat.

There were three courses running on the day, a group of ten trainees were based in the classroom learning about legislation, another group of 12 specials were in the gym practising their Officer Safety Training and a further 15 gained experience in dealing with community based issues.

The subjects covered by the specials learning about the legislation they need to know and how to apply it, included Discretion, the Human Rights Act, Breach of the Peace and when to use the Caution.

The officer safety training covered, self defence, using arm restraints and how to deal with prisoners safely.

The third group of trainees used the knowledge they had already learnt to role-play situations they may encounter when on patrol. The scenarios included searching, arresting and transporting suspects before taking them into custody and dealing with a frantic mother who had lost her child. They also experienced dealing with disputes, suspicious property, vehicles and people.

Sergeant Dave Merritt, of the force's Training Services, said: "The training special constables receive is similar to that which is given to regular officers during their initial training but is generally delivered on a weekend to suit our volunteers. This will prepare them for the next stage of learning the role of a Police Officer and their duties when they embark on the tutored stage and ultimately independent patrol status."

Special Constable Tom Stirling, who will be based at York, said: "I have really enjoyed the training. I am very confident that it has given me the skills and knowledge that I will need when on patrol and I look forward to putting it into practice."

The Specials all joined up following a successful recruitment campaign which ran in 2011 and began their training in January 2012.

1.08pm - 29 June 2012