In this address to the Metropolitan Special Constabulary Conference, Deputy Commissioner Matt Jukes sets the volunteer contribution of specials against the wider pressures facing policing in London. He thanks special constables for their service, reflects on the data presented during the conference and recognises the extraordinary contribution volunteers continue to make, particularly as overall numbers decline but hours of service remain strong.
The speech also places that contribution in the context of a Met facing shrinking budgets, rising complexity, growing international links to crime and a criminal justice system under heavy strain. Jukes argues that volunteers remain central to neighbourhood policing and community crime fighting, while also stressing the need for better practical support, stronger leadership, more intelligent use of technology and a clearer place for volunteering within future reform.
Key takeaways
- Matt Jukes thanks special constables for their service and says their contribution to London is extraordinary.
- He highlights that while volunteer numbers have fallen, the overall hours contributed remain remarkably strong.
- A big theme is that specials are central to neighbourhood policing and community crime fighting.
- Jukes says the Met still needs to do more to support volunteers in practical ways.
- He warns that policing is becoming more complex, more international and more demanding.
- The speech points to a criminal justice system under major pressure, with long waits for victims.
- Jukes says technology must play a bigger role in helping policing work more efficiently.
- He believes volunteering should have a stronger place in future reform conversations.
Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to Matt Jukes
01:13 – Thanks to the Metropolitan Special Constabulary
02:49 – Why the contribution still matters so much
03:27 – Where support for specials can improve
05:42 – Neighbourhood policing and visible crime fighting
07:27 – The wider pressures facing the Met
11:00 – Budget pressure, technology and reform
13:47 – Hope, leadership and the future of volunteering
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