The first meeting to discuss whether Specials should be allowed to become members of the Police Federation is due to be held in Surrey today.

PC John Tully – of the Federation’s Joint Constables Committee – confirmed that the process would begin with discussions at the organisation’s Leatherhead HQ.

He expected that terms of reference would be set out at the initial meeting but emphasised that he did not expect a decision on the move in the short-term.
¬From our point of view, I think it is important that we embrace this body of people but we will have to see where we go¬
PC Tully, a full-time Federation representative responsible for recruits at Hendon, said: “I am wholeheartedly behind allowing Specials to become members.

“From our point of view, I think it is important that we embrace this body of people but we will have to see where we go from the initial meeting in Leatherhead.”

While there is an agreement with the Home Office that covers the legal costs of Specials involved in criminal proceedings, PC Tully pointed out that they did not have the same benefits as Regular counterparts if they faced misconduct allegations.

Giving access to Federation assistance would address this situation, he added.

As reported on PoliceOracle.com, a motion from Sussex Police calling on Specials to be allowed Federation membership was carried by the organisation’s Joint Central Committee during the annual conference in May.

George Cook, Chair of the Association of Special Constabulary Chief Officers said the success of the motion had opened up “possibilities for discussion”.