In a report to the sub-committee, Chief Constable John Vine said the latest intake in October had seen 23 new special constables appointed from a diverse range of backgrounds in terms of age, experience and skills.

Following a review of their role and responsibilities, special constables now receive continuing structured training, re-certification in officer safety training, and are included in shift briefings in accordance with the principles of the National Intelligence Model.

“A consequence of this work resulted in some individuals reconsidering whether they wished to remain as special constables and, indeed, some chose to discontinue. But it should be noted this was by officers who infrequently reported for duty, if at all,” Mr Vine said.

Tayside was one of the areas chosen to pilot a scheme to financially reward special constables, which the Scottish Executive has since approved for rollout across the country.

Mr Vine said the scheme, which provides for an allowance of £1000 a year, was voluntary, and special constables can elect to opt out of it if they wish. Just over 90 of the 138 special constables in Tayside have decided to join the scheme for this financial year.

To quality for the payment, special constables have to complete 45 tours of duty a year. That comprises 30 tours of essential working, which is predetermined by divisional commanders; five training sessions; and 10 tours of other duty, which includes assisting at major public events and attending court.

“Feedback in respect of the pilot scheme has been extremely positive from divisional commanders and the special constables’ representatives,” Mr Vine said.

Special constables are often assigned to deal with a particular policing issue, such as youths causing annoyance and anti-social behaviour.

“Good links have been established between community wardens, special constables and regular officers, which has resulted in improved intelligence being submitted,” the Chief Constable said.

In the pilot year, the scheme cost around £93,000, which was funded in full by the Scottish Executive. A bid by Tayside Police for a further £150,000 for the scheme has been approved by the Executive..