Press release

Police on the case to recruit Dundee students

Published on 11 February 2020

Students at the University of Dundee can develop their CVs by working with Police Scotland and swapping their books for the beat.

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Students at the University of Dundee can develop their CV’s by working with Police Scotland and swapping their books for the beat.

The force is looking to recruit Special Constables within Tayside Division, giving student volunteers the opportunity to learn new skills while providing a valuable public service.

The national police force will be one of more than 40 organisations, charities and community groups attending the University’s annual Volunteering and Work Experience Fair, which takes place within the Dundee University Students Association (DUSA) on Thursday 13 February.

The event allows students to learn more about a wide range of volunteering and employment opportunities to develop their CV’s and gain valuable workplace experience.

Alison Tooze, Special Constables Coordinator at Police Scotland, said, “Operating as a Special Constable puts students on the frontline of police work.

“They will operate exactly as a regular officer would, providing experience of a real working environment and developing skills that could help them in future careers, whether within the police service or elsewhere.

“The role of a Special Constable allows students to build their confidence and develop their interpersonal skills, all while making a valuable contribution to their community. Everyone receives training and will work alongside regular police officers.

“We already have several student Special Constables. There’s a minimum requirement of 96 hours a year – equivalent to eight hours a month – and we realise there are times when studies and exams have to take priority, so there is flexibility to accommodate that.

“Special Constables act as an important bridge between the police and the public, and Dundee’s student community can make a valuable contribution to that role.”

Hosted in conjunction with DUSA, this year’s Volunteering and Work Experience Fair will have representatives from more than 40 groups attending, including Dundee Age Concern, the Dundee United Community Trust, Marie Curie, Salvation Army, and Victim Support Dundee.

Mark McCabe, from the University’s Careers Service, said, “Every year, hundreds of our students sign up to volunteer in crucial roles throughout the local community. Not only does this allow them to attain skills that will provide them with an advantage when applying for jobs, but it also provides crucial support to some of the most vulnerable people in our city.

“This event always attracts a diverse range of organisations, so whether it’s joining police officers on our streets, supporting a local charity or working in a shop, there really is an opportunity for every student.”

The University of Dundee’s Volunteering and Work Experience Fair takes place in Air Bar, DUSA, from 11.00am – 3.00pm on Thursday 13 February.

Enquiries

Jonathan Watson

Senior Press Officer

+44 (0)1382 381489

j.s.watson@dundee.ac.uk