Quickly exit this site by pressing the Escape key Leave this site
We use some essential cookies to make our website work. We’d like to set additional cookies so we can remember your preferences and understand how you use our site.
You can manage your preferences and cookie settings at any time by clicking on “Customise Cookies” below. For more information on how we use cookies, please see our Cookies notice.
Your cookie preferences have been saved. You can update your cookie settings at any time on the cookies page.
Your cookie preferences have been saved. You can update your cookie settings at any time on the cookies page.
Sorry, there was a technical problem. Please try again.
This site is a beta, which means it's a work in progress and we'll be adding more to it over the next few weeks. Your feedback helps us make things better, so please let us know what you think.
After retiring, Rich Greenhalf wanted to take on a new challenge – one that would not only give something back to the community, but also challenge him in new ways. Now a Special Constable with six years experience, SC Greenhalf speaks about the most rewarding parts of being a Special and why he’d encourage those thinking about it to join.
What motivated you to join as a Special Constable?
I decided to join as a Special Constable as I wanted to have the opportunity to give something back to the community, while also learning new skills and challenging myself physically and mentally. I felt that being a Special Constable gave me the opportunity to do all of those things while allowing me to keep my other commitments.
What would you say to someone who is considering joining as a Special Constable?
Give it a try! You will find it challenging at times but it’s also so rewarding to know you’ve made a difference to someone’s life. You’re well-supported, not just through your training, but once you have attested and are a warranted officer as well. You’re assigned to a team with a regular Sergeant and constables who are always there to help and support you so you’re never on your own.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a Special Constable?
For me, the most rewarding part of being a Special Constable is being there for people at times when they need it the most, for example if they’ve been a victim of a crime or having problems coping with their situation. It is incredibly rewarding to know that I’ve made a positive impact on that person’s life, however small that difference may be.
I also help to mentor Special Constables, and it is great watching them come in as new recruits and develop into officers.
How has being a part of the Special Constabulary benefitted you, either in your work or personal life?
As a Special Constable, I am often helping other people in their times of need but it has also helped give me a sense of purpose. I enjoy making a positive difference to others, and it has also helped increase my self-confidence, both inside and outside of policing. I feel able to talk to people from all walks of life and deal with situations that I may not have thought myself able to before I joined up.
It has also helped me to maintain my physical fitness and keep my mind active. Retirement typically comes with a sense of slowing down but this was not something I wanted to do.
It’s also taught me a lot about myself. I’ve realised that I am capable of working outside my comfort zone and that I can exceed my own expectations of my abilities.
What is your proudest moment as a Special Constable?
My proudest moment as a Special Constable would have to have been when I helped prevent a vulnerable teenager from harming herself.
We had been called to a house where a young woman was threatening to jump from an upstairs window. I got there just as she went over the window ledge but was able to grab a hold of her legs and keep her from falling until other officers arrived and we were able to get her the help she needed.
Knowing what could have happened if I hadn't been there or had been a couple of seconds later doesn't bear thinking about. I feel incredibly proud that I helped save that young woman's life and is part of the reason why I continue to do this job. If I can make a positive difference in just one person's life, I know I will have done a worthwhile job.
If SC Greenhalf's story has made you interested in becoming a special constable or you want to find out more, take a look at what it takes to join us or view all our volunteering opportunities.