An Edinburgh officer has won the ‘Special Constable of the Year’ award at the Chief Constable’s Bravery and Excellence awards.
PC Skouse, who has since joined Police Scotland as a regular constable, was presented with the award at a ceremony held at Police Scotland Headquarters, Tulliallan.
During his time as a special constable, PC Skouse worked with various departments and divisions. Being a valued member of the North East Support Team (NEST), he was regularly involved in tackling antisocial behaviour and pro-active community initiatives including the seizure of drugs and e-scooters.
In 2025, he volunteered over 1,000 hours working with roads policing, response policing and J Division’s Specials Initiative Team (SIT).
Chief Superintendent Louise Harvie, Head of Learning, Training and Development said, “Congratulations to PC Skouse on winning the Chief Constable’s award. His unquestionable dedication, hard work and passion in that role was clear, and this well-deserved recognition is a wonderful example of what can be accomplished.”
PC Skouse is currently undergoing the new initial probationer training course.
This training will see improvements made to curriculum content and practical based elements, enabling officers to feel more confident when they deploy to communities across Scotland.
Inspector Becky Lidster, Head of Initial Probationer Training commented:
“The duration of the initial probationer training course has recently been increased to an 18-week programme. To ensure officers are ready for the operational phase of their probation, more time is now dedicated to statement taking, use of mobile devices, practical scenarios and physical fitness. These changes have been implemented following feedback from former probationers, tutor constables and local policing supervisors.”
Police Scotland are currently recruiting for police officers and special constables
