The Employer Supported Policing (ESP) programme is a partnership initiative between police forces and businesses that enables employees to volunteer as Special Constables while receiving support from their employer. Under the scheme, participating organisations agree to release staff for a set number of paid or unpaid hours each month to carry out policing duties in their local communities.
Benefits for Employers
- Enhanced Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Demonstrates a visible commitment to public service and community safety.
- Stronger Reputation & Public Trust: Businesses aligned with policing initiatives are often viewed as more ethical, responsible, and community-focused.
- Workforce Development: Staff who volunteer as Special Constables gain real-world skills in leadership, communication, conflict resolution, and decision-making—skills they bring back into the workplace.
- Employee Retention & Engagement: Supporting staff in meaningful voluntary roles increases morale, loyalty, and pride in the organisation.
Benefits for Employees (Special Constables)
- Protected Time to attend duties: With employer backing, volunteers can balance their police duties alongside work without sacrificing leave or pay (depending on employer arrangements).
- Professional Growth: Policing experience builds confidence, resilience, problem-solving ability, and decision-making under pressure.
- A Sense of Purpose: Individuals gain the satisfaction of contributing directly to public safety, supporting vulnerable people, and making a real difference in their community.
- Recognition & Support: Being part of the ESP programme means both the police and their employer value their contribution.
What the Scheme Means for Participants
For individuals whose employers are part of the ESP programme, it means they are empowered—not hindered—to serve as volunteer police officers. They receive flexibility, understanding, and in many cases paid time to carry out their policing role. It creates a unique “three-way partnership” between the volunteer, their employer, and the police—each benefiting from the others’ support.