There are an estimated 8,000 Police Support Volunteers (PSVs) in England and Wales, contributing around 650,000 hours each year to an expanding variety of tasks to support their local constabularies. Despite this, the evidence base around the experiences of being a PSV is remarkably limited. Drawing on findings from the first national survey of police volunteers in England and Wales, undertaken in early 2016 with just over 1,000 PSV responses, this article explores key factors that are associated with the overall experience of being a PSV pointing towards the significance of management, support, supervision, connection, contribution and development on volunteer morale. The article sets these findings within the strategic context of future developments for PSVs, considers practical actions for improving volunteer experience, and highlights the importance of further research into being a volunteer in policing.

Special Constables have an established history within British policing. The Special Constabulary has represented an under-researched aspect of policing, with motivations to join, morale, factors relating to length of service and reasons for leaving being poorly understood. This article draws upon data from a national survey of Special Constables undertaken across all police forces in England and Wales. The analysis illustrates differences in motivations, dependent on age, and length of service, with younger Special Constables viewing the role as a pathway to future paid employment as a Regular police officer. The results contradict perspectives that attribute attrition from the Special Constabulary primarily to changes in personal circumstances for Specials, demonstrating how such changes are less important than satisfaction with the experience of being a Special Constable. The article concludes by identifying the significance of the findings for future policy and practice in respect of the Special Constabulary.

A substantial body of research engaging volunteer Special Constables has reflected the importance for them of relationships and integration with their Regular, paid police officer colleagues. This article looks at this professional relationship from the other side, drawing upon 1,382 responses to an online survey of Regular police officers undertaken across five police forces in England and Wales. Findings point to gaps in confidence in the adequacy of recruitment, training, and initial practice competency and scepticism on leadership and strategic direction. More positive findings reflect valuing the contribution and perceptions of positive relationships. This article identifies the need for police forces to engage and involve Regular officers more constructively with the Special Constabulary. The research has a broader relevance for cultural engagement and integration across the diversity of roles in the ‘police family’, both paid and volunteer.