A Critical Examination of the Use of Police Special Constables in the Covid-19 Pandemic

This PhD studentship is funded by the International Centre for Policing and Security.

Despite being around for many years in its current form, research and academic literature on Police Volunteers known as Special Constables is sparse. This project seeks to provide a critical examination of the use of special constables in police forces in England and Wales. It will establish whether their role was expanded and utilised above the normal expectation during the Covid-19 pandemic. 

The project will consider how Special Constables were regarded and utilised in comparison to their regular colleagues. It will provide recommendations for the future use of Special Constables and other forms of volunteers.  It will have great impact not only for the industry, but for academics studying the field of policing.

Candidates must have experience of research projects and a knowledge of the organisational structure of police agencies is desirable. An upper second-class honours degree, a Master’s degree, or relevant equivalent industrial experience, is required. Access to Police Forces involved in the project will be via contacts already in existence at the International Centre for Policing and Security.  

The studentship is to support full-time study for three years. The successful applicant will receive an annual tax-free bursary of £15,285 and tuition fees (at the Home student rate) will be waived.

How to Apply

• Please read Thinking of applying for a Postgraduate Research Degree? | University of South Wales
• Please apply directly 
• Please read our guidance on how to write a research proposal.

Enquiries

• Academic enquiries: Professor Colin Rogers [email protected] 
• Application enquiries: Jane MacCuish in the Graduate School [email protected]
• Closing date: 1/8/21.