Essex Police Federation is backing calls to give Specials paid leave from their jobs so they can join the fight against coronavirus.

There are currently more than 10,000 Special Constables in the UK, and the NPCC wants them freed from their jobs to help out already stretched forces.

The NPCC says they are a vital resource as forces battle against increasing demand and depleted workforces as officers and staff self-isolate.

The appeal has gone out to businesses that are already part of the national Employer Supported Policing Scheme (ESP), which provides Special Constable additional paid leave to allow them to undertake police duties.

Employers who are not currently part of the ESP are also being asked to show their support.

The plan has a supporter in Essex Police Federation Chairman Steve Taylor (pictured), who said: “Anything we can do to bolster our numbers has got to be welcomed.

“We’ve got the second biggest Special Constabulary in the country in Essex so we would be front and centre beneficiaries of such a drive. So, we welcome it.”

Special officers in the county already provide a ‘fantastic’ service, he said.

Steve added: “The 524 Specials we have already help us daily, so anything else they can do would be a real bonus. If that means employers giving them more discretion from their day jobs and at the same time those Specials are happy to continue contributing, like we know they can, then we’d bite their hand off for that kind of support.

“A great Special is worth their weight in gold. They’re experienced, they’re trained, they’ve got the equipment, and they are the equal of a regular. They really do add value.”

NPCC Chair Martin Hewitt has said the release of Specials from their work duties is part of policing’s contingency plan as it fights on several fronts against the virus outbreak.