Force celebrates the people and employers supporting volunteering in Dorset
Dorset Police is marking National Employer Supported Policing Day by recognising the contribution of its special constables, while thanking the businesses and organisations whose support enables them to serve their communities.
Employer Supported Policing (ESP) is a national partnership between policing and employers that encourages organisations to support staff who volunteer as special constables or police support volunteers by providing them with additional paid leave. This could be to allow time for operational duties, training, or simply championing their volunteering commitments.
To mark the day of action, Dorset Police will be highlighting the positive impact special constables and supportive employers have across the county, demonstrating how they work together to help keep Dorset safe.
The date coincides with the 195th year of the Special Constables Act 1831, an act of Parliament which was given Royal Assent on 15 October 1831. This laid the foundations for today's Special Constabulary by allowing local communities to appoint volunteer citizens with police powers to help maintain law and order when additional support was needed.
Across Dorset, special constables contribute thousands of hours each year, supporting frontline policing, protecting vulnerable people and engaging with local communities. Behind many of these volunteers is an employer who recognises the value of public service and the skills that volunteering can develop.
In addition to the Special Constabulary, Dorset Police has more than 30 police support volunteer roles operating across teams and departments throughout the county. These volunteers provide valuable support to local policing while developing skills in areas such as communication, problem solving, safeguarding and community engagement.
Assistant Chief Officer Jo Mosley, of Dorset Police, said: “National Employer Supported Policing Day is an opportunity to recognise the outstanding contribution made by our special constables and police support volunteers, as well as the employers whose support makes that contribution possible.
"Our volunteers bring a wealth of skills, experience and dedication to policing in Dorset. Whether they are supporting frontline operations, engaging with communities or providing specialist assistance behind the scenes, they play a vital role in helping us keep people safe.
"We are extremely grateful for all of our volunteers and the organisations that enable their employees to undertake these roles alongside their day jobs. Their support demonstrates a shared commitment to public service and makes a real difference to communities across Dorset."
Acting Chief Officer Ben Deeks, of the Dorset Police Special Constabulary, said: "By committing to Employer Supported Policing, businesses are actively empowering their teams to give back to the very communities in which they operate. This vital partnership directly enhances our neighbourhood policing presence and builds essential frontline capacity, ensuring we remain visible, connected, and responsive to local needs.
"The benefits are truly mutual. While the community gains dedicated officers, employers see their staff develop robust leadership, resilience, and crisis-management skills - invaluable personal growth and lived experiences that translate directly back into the workplace.
"Today, as we proudly mark the 195th anniversary of the Special Constables Act, it is fantastic to see our special constables being released by their employers to provide this extra support on the streets. Their dedication, backed by the proactive commitment of local businesses, plays a crucial role in our shared mission to make Dorset a safe county for everyone."
We are recruiting for special constables and a range of volunteer roles now. Find out more and how to apply here: Volunteer roles | Dorset Police
To learn more about Employer Supported Policing, visit: Employer Supported Policing | Dorset Police
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