Dorset Police news site

Special Inspector Jon Withers has volunteered with the Force for almost four years. This past year, he contributed close to 1,000 hours of service, supporting his team and the communities of Dorset. That’s nearly 20 hours every week of the year.

Jon is responsible for a team of 25 special constables across north and east Dorset, supporting their ongoing welfare and guiding them to achieve their goals through detailed training and development.

As a special inspector, Jon liaises directly with regular inspectors and chief inspectors, fostering positive integration within the Force and working alongside regular officers.

Jon has received excellent training himself, enabling him to engage in policing activities effectively, plan major operations, and safeguard vulnerable people, which has even benefited his day job.

The Dorset Police Special Constabulary has a strong history of supporting policing in the county. Each year, they contribute tens of thousands of hours to help make Dorset a safe county for everyone.

Special constables are volunteers, and few other volunteering opportunities can offer the same challenges, responsibilities and rewards as policing. Special constables have the same powers and uniforms as regular police officers. They work closely with officers to support local communities, offering the opportunity to be involved daily with various situations and evolving scenarios.

The Special Constabulary is entirely different from Jon’s day job running two businesses, offering a diverse experience gained from policing ranging from traffic accidents, domestic abuse and mental health crises.

Jon said: “It is rewarding, challenging and incredibly varied. We can be first on the scene of a road traffic accident, reassuring and supporting casualties and others affected while working with other emergency services. Then, we could be supporting victims of domestic abuse or checking the welfare of a vulnerable person. We’ve even cooked dinner for a 92-year-old while we waited for her carer to attend.

“I was frustrated with people’s negative view of policing. Rather than moaning, I knew I could make a difference, so I did.”

When asked what he’d say to those considering joining the Special Constabulary, Jon said: “I would say, do it. The training is challenging and will push you, but your cohort of recruits becomes your team. You grow close quickly as you rely on each other and will learn new skills unique to the police service. You are on an active team where you can make a real difference, even save a life.”

Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Farrell said: “I am incredibly proud of all those volunteering in the Special Constabulary and the rich experience and skillset they bring to Dorset Police.

“It never ceases to impress me to witness their contribution. They show impeccable commitment and professionalism, supporting their colleagues in the Special Constabulary and wider Dorset Police family.

“I met and spoke with Jon while on duty on Christmas day. Seeing his incredible dedication in person was encouraging, making time to volunteer to keep people safe in Dorset. I want to thank him and all the 93 officers in the Special Constabulary for their ongoing commitment to policing, volunteering 24,800 hours over the last year.”