The ancient offices do carry modest salaries ranging from £8,000-12,000, but in calling for islanders to come forward, Chief Pleas is stressing the positive contribution that office holders can make to Sark life and supporting the community.
Constables and assistant constables are asked to respond to emergencies ‘and make life safer and happier for everyone’.
They have to undergo a level of police training, produce an annual report for Chief Pleas, and liaise with Bailiwick Law Enforcement. Equipment is provided.
Sark constables have a broad responsibility for helping to keep the island safe and maintaining public order. They provide a visible presence in the community, respond to incidents and requests for assistance, investigate offences, gather evidence, take statements, enforce road traffic legislation, and prepare cases for presentation before the court.
Constables also attend public meetings and social events to keep the peace, support victims and witnesses, manage potentially volatile situations, and take appropriate action on information received from members of the public. Only local residents can apply for the role, with Chief Pleas stressing the need for postholders to really understand the community.
‘The role is strongly community-focused, requiring constables to develop local knowledge and build positive relationships with residents, businesses, and visitors. Sark constables also work closely with law enforcement agencies in Guernsey, collaborating on investigations, operational matters, specialist support, and the sharing of information and expertise to help ensure the effective delivery of policing and public safety services within the Bailiwick.’
Last year’s annual report expressed concern about falling numbers of constables in the island and increased incidents requiring help from Guernsey Police, saying the level of reliance was not sustainable in the longer term.
Most calls on the constables’ time for the period from October 2024 to March 2026 were for road traffic complaints and safeguarding matters. There were also 17 recorded matters relating to guns, and 14 for theft, including the taking of bicycles.
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