SC James Stocker

How long have you been a Special Constable at Essex Police?

I started my training in September 2019 and attested at the beginning of April 2020.

Who is your ESP employer?

Birketts LLP

How do you feel about them supporting you as a Special?

I’m really grateful to Birketts for giving me the opportunity to help the community and learn new skills.

How has being a Special Constable benefitted you and your employer?

As a Special Constable you come across all sorts of different people and situations. I’ve found that being a Special is really helping to develop my communication skills and my ability to quickly solve problems, both of which are essential skills in my role as a Trainee Solicitor at Birketts.

Why did you decide to volunteer/become a Special Constable?

It’s always been a childhood dream of mine to be a Police Officer, so when the opportunity to volunteer as a Special came up, and I discovered that my employer would give me time off for my duties, it was a no brainer!

What advice would you give to anyone wanting to live their other life and become a special?

I have volunteered in various roles previously but being a Special Constable with Essex Police is by far the most exciting. You learn a huge amount and the support and opportunities available to you are second to none. The role is also flexible enough that you can work around your existing commitments. If you’re thinking of joining, go for it, it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made.

"Birketts are delighted to support James’ decision to become a Special Constable. Volunteering for a role like this not only helps to make the local area safer, but is fundamental to improving relationships between the public and the police.
Becoming a Special Constable is a great way to develop a new perspective on your community, and has provided James with an unrivalled opportunity to learn from challenges which he would not experience in his normal day-to-day duties at the office."
Shaun Savory, HR Director at Birketts