The Recruitment Process
To join Humberside Police as a Special Constable you will have to successfully complete the six stages of our recruitment process. We have provided a brief outline of these stages below.
Step one - The Application Form
You will be asked to complete an online Special Constabulary application form. It is important that you complete this form in as much detail as possible to proceed.
Step two - Shortlisting Application
Once you have submitted your application we’ll check eligibility and process your application. An eligibility workshop will be held during this stage
Eligibility Check
We will check that you meet our eligibility criteria, ensuring you meet all the necessary requirements.
You can find the eligibility criteria document here.
There are also certain occupations that may stop you from joining as a Special Constable. Please have a look at the list of Precluded Occupations here.
You will also be asked to submit photos of your tattoos with your application. We require one close-up of all your tattoos and one at a distance so we can see where the tattoo is located. We need to consider every tattoo regardless of visibility or not. The eligibility of tattoos can be found within the Eligibility Requirements section.
Step three - National Pre-Sift
Everyone that passes our shortlisting will then be invited to this next stage.
The national sift consists of two exercises, the situational judgement test (SJT) and a behavioural styles questionnaire (BSQ). These exercises are used to assess capabilities, strengths and behaviours that are important within the role of a Special Constable.
Situational judgement test
The SJT assesses your judgement and decision-making skills in relation to job relevant situations. In the exercise, you will be presented with 15 scenarios that reflect challenging situations you may face when working in the role.
Behavioural styles questionnaire
The BSQ measures your typical behaviour and preferences at work. The purpose of the questionnaire is to assess whether you have the right behaviours and attitudes to be effective in the role.
Step four - In force interview
You will be invited to attend an in-force interview which would take place on a weekday or evening. The interviews take approximately 35 minutes and are usually done in person.
The interview will consist of several questions which will be marked using our force interview marking system, so we are able to assess your suitability as a Special Constable.
To provide support with the interview a workshop will be held ahead of the in-force interview.
Competency and values framework
The competency and values framework (CVF) provides clear expectations for everyone working in policing. As it plays a significant role in the recruitment, assessment, and development of officers and staff at every level, you should read through the framework to ensure that you have a full and complete understanding of expectations in the workplace.
Step five - Pre-employment Checks
If you are successful at the assessment process there are several pre-employment checks that need to be completed.
- Vetting – This means having no criminal convictions (some minor offences may be considered on a case by case basis)
- Occupational Health Medical – Assessments with our in force Occupational Health Team
- References, including absences – Employment and/or character
- Biometric Testing – Finger Prints and DNA
- Substance Misuse
- Review of Tattoo’s – Your tattoos will be reviewed as a part of pre employment checks to ensure they do not cause any offence or have any conflicting meanings (If Applicable)
- Fitness Test – Must meet the police officer standard of 5.4 bleep test
Step six - Receive an Offer
Once you have successfully completed the recruitment process you will be offered a place on our next available training course.
You can read more about what the role of a Special Constable involves here.
Humberside Police welcome applications from underrepresented communities. For further information on positive action within Humberside Police, please visit the positive action page.