At the second Metropolitan Special Constabulary Conference, Policing Minister Sarah Jones MP sets out a clear challenge: how do we stop the decline in special constables and build a stronger future for volunteer policing? Speaking to specials from across London, she thanks them for their service, reflects on the value they bring through specialist skills and local knowledge, and links their future directly to the government’s wider Police Reform White Paper.
From neighbourhood policing and everyday crime to cyber skills, workforce welfare and the role of technology, this speech offers a rare look at how ministers are thinking about the future of specials. Just as importantly, Jones makes clear that government does not yet have all the answers — and wants to hear directly from volunteers about what needs to change.
Key Takeaways
- Sarah Jones says the government wants to reverse the decline in special constable numbers.
- She links the future of specials directly to the wider Police Reform White Paper.
- Specials bring unique value through professional skills, local knowledge and volunteer service.
- The government wants local police to refocus on everyday crime and neighbourhood policing.
- A new national police force is intended to tackle serious and organised crime more strategically.
- Jones says outdated systems and weak technology still make policing harder than it should be.
- Workforce welfare, development and retention are central to the reform agenda.
- She wants specials to help shape the answer on recruitment, training, support and long-term retention.
Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to Sarah Jones MP
02:08 – “Thank you for everything that you do”
03:10 – Why specials matter
05:30 – The purpose of the Police Reform White Paper
06:10 – Everyday crime and neighbourhood policing
07:00 – Serious organised crime and a national force
07:40 – Technology, AI and broken systems
08:24 – Workforce, welfare and the future of specials
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