Agenda item

Presentation of the Special Constabulary Commander

The Committee heard a presentation of the Special Commander that provided Members with an update on the use of Volunteers by the City of London Police.

The Commissioner explained that the Special Commander had achieved a great deal, that the Specials Constabulary was very well regarded and as such had secured additional funding from government.  He also explained that the Cyber Specials programme was to be rolled out nationally.

The Special Commander presented to Members an outline of the work that had been done on formulating a strategy for the use of volunteers within the CoLP.  He explained that with current recruitment they expected to reach full capacity in 2018.  He explained that there was a significant desire from members of the public to volunteer, strengthened following the recent terror attacks, and up until now this desire has not been effectively utilised.  He explained that the Specials have an understanding of how to utilise volunteers in roles that were currently demanding Police staff resources, and the desire was thus for the CoLP to formulate a gold standard for the use of volunteers that could be employed nationwide.

The Specials Commander emphasised the benefit of employer-supported policing, in which tax breaks were provided for companies that allowed their employees to take time out of work to volunteer.  This held particular potential as there was a wealth of talent within the City that employees could provide in areas such as Cyber-crime.

The Specials Commander explained that the goal was for the programme to be entirely funded without the requirement for additional funding requests from the Police budget, aided by grants income and savings.  He confirmed that the proposals would be put forward in the week commencing 18 December, with the launch date planned for March 2018.  A national template for the use of volunteers would then be formulated by the end of 2018.  The Chairman illustrated his approval of the work achieved, the enthusiasm of the Commander and the ambitions for the future.  He requested that the planned launch date in March 2018 be confirmed with a view to Member attendance. (2)

A Member enquired with regards to equality and diversity as to the reasonable adjustments available for those who will have difficulty accessing this, but have a desire to volunteer.  The Specials Commander confirmed that the same allowances would apply as for Special Constabulary.  For example, reasonable travel expenses would be provided, though the Specials Commander emphasised that it was not explicitly necessary for volunteers to travel from their area of residence – they may be able to contribute significantly from their own residence with the benefit of agile working arrangements.

RESOLVED – That the Specials Commander be heard.