BTP Federation is welcoming Specials as members from this month (January 2021). Their membership of the staff association will be funded by BTP.

BTP has 302 Specials who last year volunteered 100,702 hours.

The Home Office confirmed last year the move to allow Specials to become members of the Federation, but concerns have been raised from within the association over the ability to foot the bill. 

Delegates, elected to represent Federation members, debated extending membership to the Special Constabulary at a meeting in September last year. The motion to allow Specials to join was carried with 63 per cent of votes in favour of the decision.

Chair of BTP Federation, Nigel Goodband, said: "BTP's Special Constables are extremely committed to supporting our members, dedicating many thousands of hours of their time each year. Throughout the coronavirus pandemic their work has been even more visible and crucial. Specials face the same dangers and challenges as our members and should have access to the same representation, protection and support.”

BTP Federation was established under the Railway Transport and Safety Act to represent officers from Constable to Chief Inspector. No amendments to the Act are required to enable Specials to join.

Ben Clifford, BTP's Special Constabulary Chief Officer, said: "I'm delighted that our Special Constables are now eligible to become members of the BTP Federation. As fully warranted officers, facing the risks and challenges associated with frontline policing, it's welcome that they will be able to access the wellbeing support and benefits of the Federation.

"Our Specials work hard to support the force's regular police officers to serve the public and do so on a voluntary basis, so it’s good news that the force have been able to support their membership."