Meet Special Sergeant Damian Walters

"I wanted a new challenge in my life – something that would broaden my horizon, which worked comfortably alongside my full-time career.
"As a family man, I saw elements in my local community that frustrated me, including what felt like rising crime.
"I’ve never been someone capable of being a by-stander, so the opportunity to make a difference as a volunteer police officer simply made sense."

"Many people will struggle to comprehend how they might fit volunteering around their already busy life, but like me, I think they may surprise themselves.
"It’s like any interest or hobby, you simply find time and when you’re in service, you’ll love it and before you know it, you’ll be immersed in it.
"The key point here is that it’s not an additional burden you’ll be taking on, instead, a new challenge that will undoubtedly enrich your ‘other life’."

"I have two (nearly three) teenage children and like most parents, all I ever want to do is provide for them and be that positive influence in their lives.
"I liked to think that as a ‘forty-something’ I’d seen a lot of life, but policing has really opened up my peripheral vision.
"This new, front row view of local life has benefited my home and work life immensely. I view things differently, handle situations better and manage stressful situations in a way that benefit those around me."

"I’ve been incredibly lucky so far and have worked in a wide range of roles at Essex Police.
"Starting my specials career in local policing in Basildon, I’ve worked at Stansted Airport with counter-terrorism teams and have gained enhanced qualifications in that area. 
"I’ve worked with specialist teams focusing on combatting serious organised crime across the county and I'm currently working alongside detective colleagues in the management of sexual offenders and violent offenders.
"In August, I’m being deployed on an international duty, to France in the  summer to assist with policing around the Olympic Games in Paris."

"There have been many proud moments so far and I guess this is why I do what I do!
"There have been high speed traffic chases involving the police helicopter and dozens of colleagues. There has been an multi-force manhunt that concluded with the arrest of a serial rapist in Hertfordshire.I’ve delivered CPR, I’ve supported victims of crime, found missing vulnerable people and I’ve been involved in some high-profile incidents – all of which have made me feel proud.
"But, without doubt, the proudest moment was far more low key. A responded to a call where a man was experiencing a mental health episode. I was there at the most critical moment and was able to help him. After nearly three hours in his home, I persuaded him to go to hospital for help. As I left him in the care of medical professionals, he called my name and said “thank you. I wouldn’t be here without you”. That’s something that will stay with me forever."

"It wouldn’t be right for me to share specifics, but it was early in my policing career. It was the first time I’d seen the harsh reality of life, compounded by many complicating factors, including supporting a family during a truly difficult time.
"I thought I could change the world, but this particular incident demonstrated that I couldn’t.
"Whilst it was a stressful situation, I saw team work on another level. My colleagues, other emergency services all worked together in complete unison and it was my first experience of real team work."

"Not only would I, but I regularly do. In fact, my son has just passed his assessment and will be joining later this year and my wife joined in 2023! So yes, I absolutely would.
"If you want a challenge that can fit around your life – be that family or work commitments, becoming a volunteer police officer is a great opportunity. If you want to be part of something you can be proud of, this is it. Just do it."

"Don’t overthink it! Come along to a recruitment event. 
"Speak to the team and find out more. We’re a diverse force that represents a diverse community.
"If you’ve a career, or have family commitments, you’ll most definitely be able to make it work in conjunction. You’ll be part of something special – an award winning team with a world of opportunities ahead.
"Policing isn’t easy, in fact it’s extraordinary – but if you want a challenge and an opportunity to make a real difference, apply now – you won’t regret it!

Special Constables, are volunteer police officers. They have the same police powers, uniforms and equipment as regular police officers. But Special Constables volunteer their time to help people and communities across Essex.

Want to know more? Take a look at our Special Constabulary page.