Naming conventions for MSC organisational structure

Freedom of information request reference no: 01.FOI.23.032824

I note you seek access to the following information:

This request relates to the Metropolitan Special Constabulary (MSC).

The MSC organisational structure naming conventions for its roles, i.e Sgt & Inspector, Chief Inspector etc, mirrors that of the regular service, with the notable difference that members of the MSC hold administrative grades with all MSC members holding the rank of Constable only;

1. Is this understanding correct?

2. How does this impact a Special Constable addressing a Special Constable with a title that sits ‘above’ them in the structure, I.e a Special Sgt, Special Inspector, Special Chief Inspector, specifically using terms such as ‘Sarge’, ‘Sir’ or ‘Ma’am’?

3. How does this impact a ranking regular officer addressing a Special Constable with a title that sits ‘above’ them according to the MSC the structure, I.e a Sgt, Inspector, Chief Inspector, specifically using terms such as ‘Sarge’, ‘Sir’ or ‘Ma’am’?

Decision

I have today decided to disclose the located information to you in full.

Please find below information pursuant to your request above.

The MSC organisational structure naming conventions for its roles, i.e Sgt & Inspector, Chief Inspector etc, mirrors that of the regular service, with the notable difference that members of the MSC hold administrative grades with all MSC members holding the rank of Constable only;

Q1 - Is this understanding correct?

Correct, however the Special Constabulary operates fewer ranks than the regular service and Chief Officer posts operate a slightly different naming convention (eg the use of Special Assistant Chief Officer which is not used in the wider MPS).

Q2 - How does this impact a Special Constable addressing a Special Constable with a title that sits ‘above’ them in the structure, I.e a Special Sgt, Special Inspector, Special Chief Inspector, specifically using terms such as ‘Sarge’, ‘Sir’ or ‘Ma’am’?

There is not one specific mandated or documented term that should be used. Historically the use of Sir and Ma’am for senior leaders (Inspectors and above) remains embedded and current practice, with ‘Sarge’ referring to the rank of Sergeant, this also extends to those in the Metropolitan Special Constabulary organisation structure.

If in doubt officers and staff members should ask individual line managers how they would prefer to be addressed. However all officers and staff should remain respectful in acknowledging the rank and respond in line with the MPS Standards of Professional Behaviour and the Policing Code of Ethics.

Q3 - How does this impact a ranking regular officer addressing a Special Constable with a title that sits ‘above’ them according to the MSC the structure, I.e a Sgt, Inspector, Chief Inspector, specifically using terms such as ‘Sarge’, ‘Sir’ or ‘Ma’am’?

There is no formal requirement for a regular officer to refer to someone who holds a special rank by the mirrored term ‘Sarge’, Sir or Ma’am etc. Whilst some choose to do so, and others not, all officers and staff should remain respectful in acknowledging the rank/role being asked of the individual (even if it does not specifically or legally apply to them) and respond in line with the MPS Standards of Professional Behaviour and the Policing Code of Ethics.