Fall in number of special constables "a huge concern"

The number of special constables in Scotland has fallen by almost 500 over two years, figures show.

The part-time, volunteer officers have similar powers to regular police officers and assist in patrols and community engagement but a Freedom of Information request by the Scottish Conservatives found there were just 810 special constables in 2016, down from 1,300 in 2014.

The role has been described as vital by senior Police Scotland officers and the Tories have raised concerns over the drop in numbers.

It is understood that a number of previously registered special constables were in fact "inactive" and have since been removed from the register.

Police Scotland said the change in the figures has not had an impact on services and pointed to recent drives by the likes of BT to encourage staff to sign up as special constables.

Tory shadow justice secretary Liam Kerr said: “These figures are a huge concern, especially in light of planned cuts in police officer numbers as well.

“Special constables have been described as crucial by those in Police Scotland, not only helping to carry out key duties but also providing an important link between the police and communities.

“With our police workforce under increasing strain this support is more important than ever, but in just a few years hundreds have left the force.

“This should be raising alarm bells within Police Scotland, and efforts need to be made to discover why so many are leaving.”

Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins said: “Special constables provide a very valuable service to their communities by assisting full-time officers in a wide variety of tasks on a voluntary basis.

“We value their commitment and dedication and monitor their attendance, and if an officer has been inactive for a period of time, we will have a discussion with them and ask them to reflect on their position."