Special Constables

Step Forward. Make a Difference. Become a Special Constable with British Transport Police.

“Being a Special Constable isn’t just a role – it’s a real opportunity to make a difference. Every Special brings something unique to the team, and together, we’re building a world-class police force that keeps the railway safe and reliable for everyone.”

At the BTP, we value the dedication and commitment of our volunteer officers. We offer professional training, opportunities to join specialist teams, and a chance to build leadership skills. Your journey with us will be meaningful, challenging, and rewarding.

Whether you're on the front line or supporting behind the scenes, you’ll use your unique strengths to make a tangible impact across the UK. If you're ready to bring passion, professionalism, and purpose to a team that values your contribution, we’d love to hear from you." Special Chief Officer Nathan Turner

Why Become a Special Constable?

British Transport Police is looking for committed individuals to volunteer as Special Constables. If you care about keeping people safe and supporting communities, particularly in the railway environment, this could be the role for you.

As a Special, you'll have full police powers and work side-by-side with our regular officers. From tackling crime and anti-social behaviour to supporting vulnerable people, you’ll play a vital part in keeping the travelling public safe.

You’ll patrol stations and trains, respond to incidents by car, and offer a reassuring presence to passengers and staff. In return, we’ll provide full training, support, and opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for volunteers who can commit at least 16 hours a month and are ready to face a variety of situations with confidence and integrity. If you're new to policing, don't worry. We'll give you everything you need to succeed.

You’ll need to:

Be a great communicator and natural problem solver

Stay calm under pressure and work well in a team

Be resilient, adaptable, and community-focused

What You’ll Gain

Make a real difference where it counts

Work in a unique and dynamic environment

Enhance your CV and build valuable skills in law, communication, first aid, self-defence, and more

Enjoy travel benefits (location dependent)

Develop personally and explore pathways into full-time policing

Where We’re Recruiting

B Division (London & South): Ashford, Blackheath, Bournemouth, Brighton, Cambridge, Colchester, Croydon, Euston, Finsbury Park, Gatwick, Guildford, Hammersmith, London Bridge, Liverpool Street, Luton, Maidstone, Norwich, Paddington, Richmond, Southampton, Southend, Stockwell, Stratford, Victoria, Wembley Park, West Ham, and BTP HQ (Buckingham Palace Road).

C Division (Midlands, North, Wales, and West): Bristol, Coventry, Crewe, Darlington, Derby, Doncaster, Exeter, Lancaster, Leeds, Leicester, Lincoln, Liverpool, Manchester, Milton Keynes, Newcastle, Peterborough, Plymouth, Preston, Sheffield, Shrewsbury, Swindon, Truro, Worcester, and York.

Eligibility Checklist

You cannot apply if:

You’ve failed an interview for BTP Special Constable or Police Officer within the last 6 months

You’ve failed vetting with BTP within the past 12 months

You’ve received a custodial sentence (including suspended sentences)

You’ve been dismissed from another force or are under investigation

You’ve been declared bankrupt, have a CCJ, or un-managed IVA

You do not have permanent right to live and work in the UK

You haven’t lived continuously in the UK for the past 3 years

You have facial or neck tattoos deemed inappropriate (assessed case by case)

*Also check our Prohibited Occupations List before applying.*

How to Apply

Applications are completed online. As part of the process, you’ll complete a Situational Judgement Test (SJT). If you’re unsuccessful, you can reapply after 6 months.

We recommend attending a Q&A session with the Recruitment Team before submitting your application.

This is an ongoing recruitment campaign. While immediate placement isn’t guaranteed, successful applicants will remain under consideration for up to 12 months following a conditional offer.

Got a Question?

We're here to help. Email us at btpspecials@btp.police.uk and our team will get back to you in confidence.

We are committed to protecting the public, building trust, and supporting communities. Join British Transport Police and be part of something bigger.