BECOMING A SPECIAL CONSTABLE IN ESSEX · The Essex Special Constabulary is no ordinary group of...

BECOMING A SPECIAL CONSTABLEIN ESSEX

APPLICATION PROCESS

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CONTENTS BECOMING A SPECIAL CONSTABLE IN ESSEX

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WELCOME

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FROM THE CHIEF OFFICER OF THE SPECIAL CONSTABULARY OF ESSEX Not everyone has the opportunity to do something about the wrong in the world. Not everyone is willing to do something about fear, exploitation, abuse or even nuisance. Not everyone is willing to put themselves out for the beneft of people they don t know. But Police Ofcers aren t everyone. They see the world diferently, go where others fear to, support where others walk away, persevere where others give up. They re driven by a desire to help, to serve and to make a diference. They re the public who stepped up, who saw a chance to be something better, something that mattered, someone who didn t shout from the sidelines but decided to serve and to protect.

We wear the same uniform and share the same powers but within our number there are those who make a paid career of it and those who volunteer - our Special Constables. Specials have ordinary jobs, families, studies and responsibilities, but then they have their other lives, lives on the frontline, reality TV but without the TV, frst person perspectives but without a controller. They re learning from a diferent book, seeing with diferent eyes, developing new confdence and growing as leaders. They re part of a bigger family, part of the thin blue line and they re part of something bigger than themselves. Specials are the best of us, yet they re also the travel agents, tile layers, train drivers, teachers and technicians we encounter every day. They re ordinary but exceptional, their passion is to serve, my privilege is to do it with them.

We re looking for more ordinary exceptional people to help serve Essex as volunteer police ofcers. If you want to be a part of something that makes a positive diference to you and the communities you’ll work in then please read on and then apply to be a Special Constable. Whether you can work 16hrs or 60hrs a month, Monday afternoons or Saturday nights there s a place for you with us. If you want to problem-solve in communities, keep our roads safe, investigate serious crime or be frst on scene at an emergency there s an opportunity for you here. It s not an easy job - sometimes it s not even a fun job -but it s rewarding work and it will be the best thing you’ve ever done.

Cat Barrie Special Constabulary

Chief Officer

WELCOME | 01

ABOUT US

02

Uttlesford

Braintree

Colchester Tendring

MaldonChelmsford

Rochford

Southend Unitary Authority Castle

Point

Basildon

Thurrock Unitary Authority

Brentwood

Epping Forest

Harlow

Essex Police operates across an area of 1,405 square miles which borders the counties of Sufolk, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire and Kent and four London boroughs. The county has an estimated population of 1.8 million, making it the ffth most populous county in England.

Essex is home to two major ports – Harwich International Port and the Port of Tilbury, two airports – Southend and Stansted and a network of key roads. The Dartford River Crossing joins us with our collaborative partner Kent Police and is used by more than 51 million vehicles a year, with a daily average of 140,405.

Southend and Harlow districts have the highest population density per square kilometre within Essex, whereas Uttlesford and Maldon districts have the lowest.

Essex Police has four countywide commands:-

• Operational Policing Command

• Crime and Public Protection Command

• Criminal Justice and Ofender Management Command

• Neighbourhood Policing Command

The Neighbourhood Policing Command consists of three local policing areas dealing with local issues which afect our communities.

These are:-

North Local Policing Area Covering Colchester, Tendring, Uttlesford and Braintree, Chelmsford and Maldon district policing areas

West Local Policing Area Covering Harlow, Thurrock and Epping Forest and Brentwood district policing areas

South Local Policing Area Covering Basildon, Southend and Castle Point and Rochford district policing areas

ABOUT US | 02

DIVERSITY | 03

DIVERSITY

03

We are committed to eliminating unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation through the advancement of equality of opportunities for the people of Essex. Forging relationships, building trust and understanding the issues within Essex’s diferent communities all form part of the platform on which efective policing is built.

As part of our comprehensive recruitment programme we are seeking to increase the representation of Black, Asian and

Minority Ethnic (BAME) people including those from across all under-represented groups within the Special Constabulary.

Further information regarding Essex Police’s programme is available by emailing our Business Centre on [email protected] For further information regarding Essex Police’s Equality and Diversity programmes, please visit:

www.essex.police.uk/about/ equality_diversity.aspx

OUR SERVICE STANDARDS | 04

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OUR SERVICE STANDARDS Delivering a high quality service

We will always treat you fairly with dignity and respect and ensure that you can easily contact us. We will get back to you within 24 hours if you report you are not happy with our service.

Protecting the public We will aim to answer emergency calls (999) within 10 seconds and to do our best to be with you in 15 minutes if you are in a town and 20 minutes if you are in a place that is harder to get to (rural areas). We will answer all non-emergency calls (101 or 01245 491491) as quickly as possible. If we need to see you we will give you an estimated time of arrival or make an appointment to see you at a mutually agreeable time.

Providing a local service We will give out information about your local ofcers so that you know who they are and how to contact them. We will listen to feedback about our services. We will arrange regular opportunities to meet you and give updates on our work and the progress we are making. We will publish local crime data on our website.

We will ensure your local ofcer calls you back within 24 hours if you ring or text them about an issue.

Keeping victims of crime informed If you are a victim of crime we will agree with you how you would like to be kept informed of progress. You have the right to be kept informed at least every month if you wish and for as long as is reasonable.

The Essex Special Constabulary is no ordinary group of people. Drive For more information about the role, and dedication are the key attributes you can check out the Essex Police needed when you make the decision website to book onto a Recruitment to volunteer. Through an on-going Information Event. training programme, you will develop skills that will beneft you no matter what your background or current situation in life.

You will encounter new and challenging experiences, meet people from all walks of life and discover what you are really capable of.

BECOMING A SPECIAL | 05

BECOMING A SPECIAL

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AM I ELIGIBLE? Are you:

3��A British, Commonwealth, European Economic Area (EEA) citizen or have an indefnite right to stay in the UK.

3��Have resided in the UK for a

BECOMING A SPECIAL

continuous period of three years immediately prior to the date of application.

3��As far as you are aware, medically able to join the Special Constabulary.

You must not:

7��Be registered bankrupt, subject to CCJs or IVAs.

7��Fail to declare any ofences or spent convictions.

7��Have defaulted accounts.

7��Have received any prison sentence.

7��Ideally not have been convicted or cautioned for a serious arrestable ofence.

7��Have been involved in serious violent ofences, unlawful possession of weapons, abuse or neglect of children, hate crime or drug possession .


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BECOMING A SPECIAL

Issues which could prevent you joining

Below are issues that could prevent you progressing through the Special Constabulary recruitment process. If you are subject to any of these issues please contact the Essex Police Business Centre on recruitment.business.services@ essex.pnn.police.uk for further advice:-

• Applicants who have discharged County Court/Sherif Court Judgements

• Applicants who have discharged the Individual Voluntary Arrangement

• Applicants who have been discharged from bankruptcy or sequestration cannot be considered

• Until three years from the date of discharge driving and motoring ofences should be declared

• Issues relating to anti-social behaviour or domestic related incidents will be taken into consideration and should be declared. Failure to declare could result in a refusal of vetting clearance

• Applicants who have been involved in serious violence ofences, unlawful possession of weapons, abuse or neglect of children, hate crime or drug possession.

It should be noted that any undeclared ofences, which are discovered by the Central Vetting Unit after the application has been submitted, would lead to rejection of the applicant.


https://essex.pnn.police.uk

THE RECRUITMENT

PROCESS

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Submit an application form Submit an initial application form and complete the motivational questions. You will then be shortlisted and your eligibility checked. You will also need to upload pictures of any tattoos you have.

THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS | 08

THE RECRUITMENT

PROCESS

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Assessment Centre

STAGE 1 Panel Interview

You will be asked to evidence where you have displayed evidence of the following competencies -

Taking ownership

Deliver, Support & Inspire

Critically analyse

Collaborative

Diversity/Emotionally Aware

You will be given the result of your Interview on the day

STAGE 2 STAGE 3 Written Test: Biometric Vetting Provided you pass your Interview, you will We collect samples of fngerprints and your DNA undertake a series of written tests under exam (mouth swab) as part of vetting. conditions. Your spelling and grammar, and ability to capture information in a clear and concise format will be assessed.

Note: You must pass both the written tests and Interview on the assessment day. If you are not successful at either or both parts, you will not proceed but will be able to re-apply after 6 months has lapsed.


THE RECRUITMENT

PROCESS

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Vetting STAGE 1 We will carry out internal and external vetting checks on you and your spouse/partner, members of your family including step-parents, step brothers and sisters and half brothers and sisters. We will also check your partner’s children if they are aged over 10 years and any other adults who reside at your address.

Financial checks will also be carried out on all candidates. If you have discharged bankruptcy debts, you will need verifcation from the Court of this and three years must have lapsed since the date of discharge

STAGE 2 Essex Police will seek references from each of your previous employers for the last 3 years. Any gaps in employment will need to be explained and verifed. If you have not been in employment for fve years, we will ask for a character reference or an educational reference.

Fitness Test You will need to run a 15 meter track in time with a series of bleeps which increase in speed. You will need to run to level 5.4. If you don’t achieve it, you can have another two attempts within a twelve week period.


Medical screening You will be asked to complete a medical history questionnaire which must be signed by your general practitioner and taken to your medical screening appointment. All medical results will be assessed by our occupational health team who may require further information from your medical practitioner which you will need to give permission for.

Full details of medical standards can be found in Appendix D. The following areas will be checked: • Lung capacity • Eyesight & Colour Vision test • Hearing test • Mobility test • BMI assessment (see appendix for details of this) • Consideration of existing conditions • Possible urine test

THE RECRUITMENT

PROCESS

06

Eyesight Test Requirements You may have seen an eyesight chart at your opticians. Each line of the chart equates to a standard, and the standard you need to meet (with or without spectacles or contact lenses) is:

Distance vision 6/12 or better with either your right or left eye 6/6 with both eyes together. If you wear spectacles or contact lenses you also need to reach 6/36 without your spectacles or lenses.

Near vision: 6/9 with both eyes together (aided).

BMI Your BMI will be assessed at your medical appointment and should fall within 18 to 30.

Anti-Depressant Medication We use national Home Ofce guidance (see table in Appendix D). Student ofcer training is intensive and stressful. Home Ofce guidance recognises this and advises that anyone taking anti-depressant medication is unlikely to be suitable for the role whilst taking it and should wait until they have been of medication for two years, leading a normally stressful life, before applying. We will consider all applications on an individual case basis, however, please do consider this before embarking on the application process.


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THE RECRUITMENT

PROCESS

Training Once you have completed the recruitment process and been hired, you can attend one of our 14 day training courses. The Training course is currently run at Essex Police HQ and you will undertake a blend of classroom, practical and home based learning. We currently run courses on alternate weekend or an intensive (4 week) course.

Once you complete your training and are attested, you will be posted out to a Police Station to begin your ‘accompanied patrol’ period.


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APPENDIX

Members of certain professions are legally restricted from serving as a Special Constable, including:

• Members of police authorities • Magistrates • Clerks to justice • Clerks to courts • Members of employer’s police forces • School crossing patrols and trafc

wardens • Neighborhood, street wardens and

other uniformed patrol wardens • Highways Agency trafc ofcers • British Transport Police ofcers/

enforcement ofcers • Members of the armed forces PCSO’s

Members of certain professions will require the permission of the Chief Constable and/or permission from their employer. These include:-• Holders of liquor licenses, managers

of licensed houses and their husband or wife

• Licensees of betting and gaming establishments and lottery promoters

• Bailifs and warrant ofcers • Probation ofcers • Members of private security

organisations (whether directors, partners or employees) which includes security personnel, guards, door staf and may also include prison custody ofcers

• Private detectives • Members of the fre service • Members of medical, nursing

and midwifery professions, and ambulance service

• Armed Forces reservists

If you have any questions regarding your employment please contact the Essex Police Business Centre on [email protected]

We may ask for a copy of your job description to clarify your role and consider your eligibility.

APPENDIX | 14

mailto:[email protected]

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APPENDIX

Countries of the European Economic Area (EEA)

To apply to become a police ofcer you must be an EEA National or a Swiss National. Commonwealth citizens and Foreign Nationals are required to have leave to enter or leave to remain in the UK for an indefnite period. Applicants must have resided in the UK for three continuous years immediately prior to application.

Listed below are member countries of the EEA.

Austria Finland Latvia Portugal Belgium France Liechtenstein Romania Bulgaria Germany Lithuania Slovakia Croatia Greece Luxembourg Slovenia Cyprus Hungary Malta Spain Czech Republic Iceland Netherlands Sweden Denmark Ireland Norway United Kingdom Estonia Italy Poland

APPENDIX | 15

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APPENDIX

Tattoos

Any tattoos which could be construed as being ofensive to any religion or belief, is in any way discriminatory, violent or intimidating, will not be accepted to join Essex Police. During the eligibility stage you will be asked to provide a brief description of your tattoos and colour photographs. You will be required to supply two digital photographs of each visible tattoo:

1. A distance photograph to clearly identify where on the body the tattoo is.

2. A close up photograph to clearly identify the images.

Photographs should be uploaded to your application. Your application will not be progressed until we have received photographs.

If your tattoo is not acceptable you will not be able to continue with your application.

APPENDIX | 16

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APPENDIX

RECOMMENDED MEDICAL STANDARDS EAR, NOSE and THROAT DISORDERS

Concern is raised with some ENT conditions where disruption of attendance, ongoing discomfort,

balance or hearing incapacity will have major detrimental efects on the operational role of a police constable

ILLNESS/INJURY/ DISEASE POLICE APPLICANT NOTES

External ear

Chronic otitis externa -Mild, Occasional

Chronic otitis externa - Severe, Recurrent

Atresia or stenosis of ear canal

Likely to be suitable

Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment – unless excluded on audiometric criteria

Impedes function, balance and use of communications equipment.

Tympanic membrane and middle ear

Perforation - Healed

Perforation - Chronic

Ventilation tubes (grommets)

Successful myringoplasty/ tympanoplasty

Chronic otitis media - Healed

Chronic otitis media - Inactive

Chronic otitis media - Active

Chronic serous otitis media

Post-mastoid surgery

Otosclerosis

Facial palsy with loss of function


Likely to require f urther information, investigation and assessment







Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment, unless audiometric standards are not met. If active chronic disease – unlikely to be suitable



APPENDIX | 17

APPENDIX

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EAR, NOSE and THROAT DISORDERS CONTINUED

Concern is raised with some z conditions where disruption of attendance, ongoing discomfort,

balance or hearing incapacity will have major detrimental efects on the operational role of a police constable


Inner ear

Meniere’s disease

Benign positional paroxysmal vertigo

Hearing- Both ears above standard

Hearing- Both ears below standard

Hearing in one ear above standard, and hearing in one ear below standard

Applicants with hearing aids that bring their hearing above the minimum standard

Unlikely to be suitable




Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment – applicant must be assessed carefully


Hearing standard - Hearing loss of more than a total of 84 dB over the 0.5 - 1.2 KHz range or more than a total of 123 dB over the 3,4 and 6 KHz range.

For borderline cases or when hearing in one ear is above the standard and hearing in the other ear below standard, or when hearing aids are ftted, consideration should be given to a practical test of hearing to assess functional ability, for example speech and/or phoneme comprehension.

Nose

Allergic vasomotor rhinitis Likely to be suitable

Recurrent nasal polyps Likely to be suitable but If there is a signifcant history then likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Persistent chronic sinusitis Likely to be suitable but If severe, likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Throat Not compatible with safety near or in water

Tracheostomy Unlikely to be suitable

Chronic laryngitis Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Other laryngeal disease Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Unable efectively to perform vital task of radio and voice

Severe speech impediment Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment but unlikely to be communication

Balance disorders and vertigo suitable if the applicant cannot communicate efectively


Usually a symptom of another condition that may make the applicant unsuitable.

APPENDIX | 18

APPENDIX

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CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM Some cardiovascular disorders can impair ftness by limiting working capacity or by risk of sudden incapacity. Therefore applicants with marked cardiovascular disorders will not be able safely and efciently to perform the operational police constable role.


Coronary artery disease - Symptomatic

Coronary artery disease - Asymptomatic



High risk of the operational role precipitating symptoms (chest pain) or a coronary event.

Congenital heart disease - Corrected

Congenital heart disease - Uncorrected



Reassess after corrective surgery, unlikely to be suitable if loss of cardiovascular function

Cardiac murmurs Benign – likely to be suitable, else likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Requirement to meet normal cardiovascular function both at rest and exercise

Acquired valvular disease Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Unless benign unlikely to be suitable. May compromise exercise tolerance

Disturbance of rhythm Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment May compromise exercise tolerance. Operational role may dangerously exacerbate the arrhythmia

Cardiomyopathies Unlikely to be suitable Operational role may precipitate a cardiac event. There may be a decrease in exercise tolerance.

Uncontrolled hypertension Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment May be referred for monitoring and treatment to own GP and assessed again when condition investigated and controlled.

Hypertension with end organ damage or unacceptable side-efects of treatment


Controlled hypertension with no side-efects of medication Likely to be suitable Subject to (annual) medical examination.

Established peripheral vascular disease afecting the lower limbs -Symptomatic Established peripheral vascular disease afecting the lower limbs -Asymptomatic



Condition is not compatible with exercise requirements of operational police constable.

Raynaud’s phenomenon Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Cold may trigger painful attacks. May afect dexterity of hands in operating equipment.

Varicose veins Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Condition will inevitably deteriorate substantially with prolonged standing and sitting. Severe varicose veins Likely to be unsuitable if symptomatic or sufciently severe to restrict capacity to

perform operational duties.

APPENDIX | 19

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APPENDIX

RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

Conditions adversely afecting respiratory ftness will limit working ability most commonly from the sensation of breathlessness


Any persistent respiratory disease impairing exercise capacity Unlikely to be suitable Assessment should be made on a case by case basis.

Asthma Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Treated hay fever without history of wheezing Likely to be suitable

Solitary spontaneous pneumothorax Likely to be suitable

Recurrent pneumothoraces Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Reassess after treatment aimed at preventing further recurrences

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) afecting exercise capacity

Unlikely to be suitable The loss of normal respiratory function will limit exercise capacity even in the absence of superadded chest infections.

Tuberculosis - Active Unlikely to be suitable Unacceptable risk of transmission during training period

Tuberculosis - History of a previous episode of TB Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Successfully treated Tuberculosis Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Sarcoid Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

APPENDIX | 20

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APPENDIX

ALIMENTARY SYSTEM

ILLNESS/INJURY/ DISEASE

Peptic ulceration or dyspepsia

Irritable bowel syndrome Irritable bowel syndrome - mild

POLICE APPLICANT


Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Likely to be suitable

NOTES

Chronic pain may interfere with role.

Applicant under investigation; require close proximity to the toilet; require codeine for control; or if the IBS has a signifcant association with stress

Infammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis)

Dietary conditions Coeliac disease Lactose intolerance Food allergy

Unlikely to be suitable, or if successfully treated UC, likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Likely to be suitable Likely to be suitable

Chronic conditions with unpredictable course and relatively high surgical intervention rates.

Many suferers will have minimal symptoms with good dietary control and will be suitable.

Hernia

Anal and perianal conditions

Anal and perianal conditions - Active chronic conditions

Likely to be suitable assuming > 3 months after successful surgical treatment. Untreated hernia refer to GP/defer till after surgery



Training and operational role will be compromised due to local weakness in abdominal musculature. Hernia is likely to increase in severity.

Persistent perianal sepsis will cause signifcant absence.

Chronic liver disease

Biliary disease Gallstone disease Chronic biliary tree


Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Unlikely to be suitable

Pancreatitis Single episode Pancreatitis - Chronic

Stoma with good nutritional state and no complications

Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Unlikely to be suitable

Likely to be suitable Consider need for provision of special padding on uniform belts

APPENDIX | 21

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APPENDIX

NEPHRO-UROGENITAL SYSTEM Renal disease and its sequelae can have profound efects on the ability of an operational police constable to attend let alone be safe and functional in his/ her occupation. Sudden incapacity from pain, hypertension and renal failure are the major complications


Haematuria/ Proteinurea Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment GP to investigate in the frst instance

Nephritis History of nephritis and ongoing impairment unlikely to be suitable. Otherwise likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Recurrent urinary tract infections Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Persistent major urethral abnormality Unlikely to be suitable Treatment is likely to be protracted

Minor urethral abnormality Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Urinary incontinence Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Benign scrotal swellings Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Testicular tumours See miscellaneous conditions

Major congenital renal abnormality Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Normal renal function necessary to allow regular attendance and performance

Normal renal function Likely to be suitable

Polycystic kidney disease Unlikely to be suitable Progression to end stage renal failure

Unilateral kidney (with remaining kidney functioning well) Likely to be suitable

Established renal stone disease Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Irreversible renal failure Unlikely to be suitable Associated fatigue, anaemia and therapy efects not compatible with operational police constable role.

Renal dialysis (Haemo/CAPD) Unlikely to be suitable Associated fatigue, anaemia and therapy efects not compatible with operational police constable role.

APPENDIX | 22

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APPENDIX

ENDOCRINE SYSTEM A defective endocrine system is unable to properly adjust and correlate the activities of the various body systems and is not able to make them appropriate for the changing demands of the external and internal environment.


Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (type 1 or type 2) Unlikely to be suitable. However, further information, and assessment will be needed

Further information and assessment will be needed in order to assess each case on its merits

Non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment The complications of diabetes can degrade the functional capacity of an operational police constable.Recent hypoglycaemic episode warrants deferral.

Thyroid disease Likely to be suitable – recruit must be undergoing treatment of have undergone successful treatment. If doubt exists, likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Pituitary disease Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Can be secondary to other conditions. If these other factors do not exclude a recruit then hormonal therapy treatment can allow individuals to return to normal function.

SKIN CONDITIONS Skin disease can be as much if not more disabling than disease of other organ systems. Physical disability from skin disease derives from decreased mobility of the abnormal stratum corneum or an abnormally stif dermis. Special concern is raised with extensive hand and foot involvement and the resultant efect on dexterity and mobility respectively.


Extensive skin disease with chronic discomfort or disruption of dermal integrity.

Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Exposure to irritants or inhospitable environments will result in frequent exacerbations.

Widespread eczema/ dermatitis Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Mild eczema Likely to be suitable

Severe psoriasis Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Mild psoriasis Likely to be suitable

Malignant Melanoma, following excision Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

APPENDIX | 23

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APPENDIX

ORTHOPAEDIC and SOFT TISSUE CONDITIONS

Dexterity, mobility and good spinal function are essential physical requirements for an individual to undertake the role of an operational police constable.


General

Any previous injury (fracture, soft tissue injury) or congenital Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment deformity, causing long term reduction in function of a joint or limb

Implants

Major joint replacement (total hip or knee)

Internally fxed fractures (‘metal work’)

Endoprosthetic replacements

Knee disorders

Medial meniscectomy

Lateral meniscectomy

Ligamentous injury requiring surgery or causing instability

Osteochondritis dissecans








Unacceptable risk to the prosthesis from exercise requirements. Severe implications of prosthetic failure in an active adult. Assess on case by case basis

Risk of re-fracture at site of metal work when returning to more energetic activities.

Used in osteosarcoma surgery. Unacceptable risk of prosthesis failure or fracture around prosthesis.

Assess on case by case basis

Risk of early osteoarthritis with associated disability.

Risk of re-injury in operational role.

Risk of severe knee joint damage.

Foot disorders Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Amputations (total or partial) of upper or lower limb Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Dislocation and instability of major joints

Single episode of dislocation with no recurrence

Recurrent dislocation or surgical treatment required


Unlikely to be suitable - rarely, if excellent surgical results from stabilisation further information, investigation and assessment could be sought.

Risk of recurrent dislocation whilst engaged in operational activities (e.g. restraining).

APPENDIX | 24

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APPENDIX

ORTHOPAEDIC and SOFT TISSUE CONDITIONS Continued

Dexterity, mobility and good spinal function are essential physical requirements for an individual to undertake the role of an operational Police constable.


Cervical spine

Resolved whiplash

Cervical discectomy (+/- fusion)



May be exacerbated by physical activities and driving.

Cervical discectomy will often not improve neck pain. Also there may be persisting neurological disability in the upper limbs.

Lumbar spine

Single level resolved lumbar disc disease +/- discectomy

Multiple level lumbar disease

Recurrent low back pain/ persistent sciatica




Low back pain +/- lower limb symptoms can be disabling. Exacerbated by driving, standing for long periods, other physical tasks.

Arthritis and related conditions

Rheumatoid arthritis

Controlled gout without complications

Ankylosing Spondylitis with chronic pain

Mild Ankylosing Spondylitis with preserved function

Reiter’s Diseases / reactive arthropathy

Connective tissue diseases







Progressive joint damage with degrading of operational capacity.

Assessment should be made on a case by case basis.

Can cause diagnostic difculties and often unpredictable course. Potential for severe incapacitation.

APPENDIX | 25

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APPENDIX

HAEMATOLOGICAL DISORDERS


Previously undetected iron defciency anaemia Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Refer to GP initially for investigations and treatment.

Other anaemias Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Many of the underlying conditions causing anaemia will make the applicant unsuitable.

G6PD defciency Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Highly variable, but an applicant may be suitable.

Polycythaemia (Haematocrit>0.55) Unlikely to be suitable Unacceptable risk of disabling complications.

Thalassaemia major with severe chronic anaemia Unlikely to be suitable Unable to safely perform required exertion.

Sickle cell disease Unlikely to be suitable Anaemia & crises.

Sickle cell disease trait Likely to be suitable Usually asymptomatic.

Mild haemophilia - Symptomatic

Mild haemophilia - Asymptomatic



Physical tasks and risk of injury may precipitate haemorrhage.

Thrombocytopaenia Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment If platelets < 25 X 109/l then the recruit is unlikely to be suitable.

Anticoagulation therapy Unlikely to be suitable The underlying condition may also make the applicant unsuitable.

Leukaemia/ lymphoma with complete remission Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Those in complete remission may be suitable following further investigation.

APPENDIX | 26

APPENDIX

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INFECTIOUS DISEASE


HIV infection - Symptomatic

HIV infection - Asymptomatic



Assessment should be made on a case by case basis.

Resolved Hepatitis A infection Likely to be suitable

Hepatitis B carriers Unlikely to be suitable

Resolved Hepatitis B infection without carrier status Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Hepatitis C and D Unlikely to be suitable

Resolved Hepatitis E infection Likely to be suitable

Glandular fever Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

APPENDIX | 27

APPENDIX

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MISCELLANEOUS CONDITIONS


Childhood or early adult malignancy

Narcolepsy

Body Mass Index outside normal range - 18 to 30

Malignant disease

Genetic disease

Chronic pelvic infammatory disease (PID) with chronic pelvic pain

Incapacitating menorrhagia

Incapacitating dysmenorrhoea

Endometriosis

Fibroids and ovarian cysts

Cervical dysplasia CIN 1/2

Cervical dysplasia CIN 3

Invasive carcinoma

Polycystic ovary disease

Pregnancy

Termination of pregnancy















Likely to be suitable after 3 months following delivery

Likely to be suitable after 4 weeks following termination providing there are no complications

BMI should only be used to screen individuals.

APPENDIX | 28

APPENDIX

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NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS


Epilepsy – single seizure Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Those in whom no abnormality is found should have their acceptance for entry deferred for a period of 18 months *

* There is a high risk of recurrence during this time. If the seizure has occurred within the past 18 months it is recommended that entry to the police service be deferred for that period. If it is clear that the condition is likely to be permanent, then the applicant is unlikely to be suitable.

Epilepsy – recurrent seizures Unlikely to be suitable Assessment should be made on a case by case basis.

Migraine Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Headaches / Severe headaches Likely to be suitable

Head Injuries

Subarachnoid haemorrhage

Transient Ishaemic Attacks

Hydrocephalus/insertion of shunts

Multiple sclerosis

Motor neurone disease, cerebella ataxias, progressive peripheral neuropathy and Parkinson’s disease







Consideration should be given to applicants deferring entry for 12 months.

It is recommended that applicants sufering from MS be deferred for 12 months after the date of appearance of their last set of symptoms.

APPENDIX | 29

07

APPENDIX

CONDITIONS AFFECTING MENTAL AND PSYCHIATRIC HEAL

ILLNESS/INJURY/ DISEASE

TH

POLICE APPLICANT NOTES

Disorders frst diagnosed in childhood or adolescence May not be suitable but further information, investigation, assessment required Assessment should be made on a case by case basis

Cognitive and Amnestic Disorders Unlikely to be suitable Assessment should be made on a case by case basis

Substance related disorders Unlikely to be compatible but further information and assessment will be needed Assessment should be made on a case by case basis

Schizophrenia / Schizophreniform Disorder / Schizoafective Disorder / Delusional Disorder

May not be suitable but further information, investigation, assessment required Assessment should be made on a case by case basis

Mood Disorders / Depression / Bipolar Disorders Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Generalised Anxiety Disorder / Panic Disorder / Phobic Anxiety / Obsessive Compulsive Disorder / Adjustment Disorder / Posttraumatic Stress Disorder


Somatoform Disorders / Factitious Disorders / Dissociative Disorders / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome


Eating disorders Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Personality Disorders Unlikely to be suitable Assessment should be made on a case by case basis.

APPENDIX | 30

Age - is there a minimum or maximum age? The youngest age at which you can apply to be a special constable in Essex Police is 18. Applications will not be accepted before your 18th birthday. There is

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detailed list:-

no upper age limit; however applicants must pass all elements of the recruitment process. Applicants must be 18 years of age to join a course.

Is anyone excluded from joining? You are not eligible to apply to join the Special Constabulary if your current employer relates to one of the following. Please refer to Appendix A for a

• Members of the armed forces (not including reservists)

• Trafc wardens and school crossing patrols

• Members of the employers’ police forces and private constabularies

• Members of police authorities, magistrates, clerks to justices and clerks to courts

• Neighbourhood and street wardens and other uniformed patrol wardens

• Police Community Support Ofcers (PCSOs)

• Highways Agency Trafc Ofcers

• Any other occupation which the Chief Constable deems a confict of interest may also prevent eligibility for the Essex Police Special Constabulary.

Nationality – are there restrictions? You must be a British Citizen or a member of the European Community (EC) or other states in the European Economic Area (EEA), a Commonwealth Citizen with un-restricted right of residence in the UK, or a citizen of the Irish Republic (please see Appendix B).

Residency – is there a qualifying period? All applicants need to reside permanently in the UK for a minimum of three years prior to applying. British Citizens who have been out of the country for more than six months need to obtain a letter of good conduct from the country/ countries where they have been residing.

Do I need a driving licence? To become a Special Constable you will not need to have a driving licence.

Height – is there a maximum or minimum limit? There are no maximum or minimum height limits.

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Criminal record – will this afect my application? Some criminal convictions will not prevent you from applying. If you apply, you must declare any conviction, civil or military, (including minor and juvenile

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must be declared.

ofences, cautions, bind overs, reprimands and fxed penalty notices) regardless of how long ago these took place. Failure to declare any of these may result in

Additionally, spent convictions under the Rehabilitation of Ofenders Act 1974

What about speeding convictions? You must declare all speeding and trafc ofences including any points on your licence within the last fve years.

Can I apply if I have any fnancial debt? We carry out fnancial checks on each applicant. If you have been declared bankrupt, have an outstanding County Court Judgement (CCJ) or an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) you will need to check with the Business Centre to see if you are eligible.

How many hours do I need to work? We ask that you do a minimum of 16 hours per month; however the majority of special constables do more.

You are also required to complete additional training when required. The hours that you work are fexible but on occasion you will be asked to do specifc duties such as air shows, concerts and county shows.

If I become a special constable will it help me get into the regular force? Becoming a special constable does not automatically mean you would be accepted into the regular force. You will still have to be successful at the entire Police Constable Recruitment process.

The experience gained from being a special constable will provide a valuable insight into policing in general. Independent Patrol status can be used as your qualifcation equivalent if you do not have the required A levels. Many of our special constables go on to become regular police ofcers.

How long does the application process take? The selection process involves a number of stages and can take up to 4 months to complete.

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What is the attestation? The attestation ceremony takes place at the end of foundation training on a weekday evening. It is attended by a Regular Chief Ofcer, a representative from the Police & Crime Commissioner’s Ofce and a magistrate.

Special constables are required to swear the oath to the magistrate, accepting the responsibilities of a police ofcer and are issued a warrant card. Friends and

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family are usually invited to attend.

Can I apply if I have tattoos? You can apply with tattoos; however we will need photographs of each of your tattoos and an explanation. Please see Appendix C for full details.

I have a medical condition - will this afect my application? You will need to declare your medical history on the medical questionnaire. Appendix D provides a comprehensive list of medical standards. If you have a specifc enquiry please contact our Business Centre on recruitment.business. [email protected] who will refer your query our Occupational Health team

FAQ | 34

mailto:[email protected]

BECOMING A SPECIAL CONSTABLE IN ESSEX · The Essex Special Constabulary is no ordinary group of...

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