Police Digital Service joins Employer Supported Policing Scheme
The Police Digital Service (PDS) has registered with the Employer Supported Policing Scheme, which allows colleagues who are Special Constables or Police Support Volunteers (PSV’s) some paid time off to volunteer in their community.
Special Constables are volunteer police officers who have exactly the same policing powers as regular paid colleagues. Police Support Volunteers do not have warranted policing powers, but volunteer their time in other roles that may include a specialist skill. The scheme is completely bespoke which means it can work if your business employs two or 20,000 people, and there are no contractual obligations for any party.
Les Hawkins, Specials Supported Policing Coordinator said: “The Employer Supported Policing Scheme (ESP) asks employers to allow staff who are Special Constables some paid time off to do policing duties. Being a Special Constable is one of the most rewarding, and at times challenging volunteering opportunities around. Studies have shown that volunteering is beneficial at combatting stress, depression and anxiety. It can also help to keep you mentally stimulated, improve your self-confidence and provide you with a sense of purpose which is a benefit for both staff and employers.
“I am really pleased that PDS have now registered with the scheme and have agreed to allow staff who are Special Constables up to 12 paid days off per year for this. It is also particularly great to hear that they have extended this offer to staff who are Police Support Volunteers. ESP is a national scheme, so benefits staff who are Specials or PSV’s wherever you are in England and Wales. All forces are recruiting.”
Tony Eastaugh CBE, CEO at PDS, said: “As the organisation responsible for enhancing UK policing through digital, data and technology we see first-hand the incredible work that goes on in police forces across the UK. We’re delighted that by becoming part of the Employer Supported Policing we are able to aid our employees to give back to their communities and help to make them stronger and safer. It is a pleasure to be part of this fantastic scheme.”
Sarah Wolf, Head of Strategic Communications at PDS has been a Special Constable since 2024. She said: “Being a Special Constable is really important to me. I was so pleased when PDS became part of Employer Supported Policing and recognised the contribution I was making as a volunteer in my community. Knowing that I have a certain number of days earmarked for my Special Constabulary duties gives me even more impetus to put on my uniform, go out on response, and be an extra pair of hands for my force.”
Information about becoming a Special Constable can be found on each local force’s website.
