Instead , they were issued with armbands which identified them as Special Constables , along with being issued a truncheon and a whistle .
For a short period of time after the MSC was formed , Specials did not receive uniforms like that of a full - time policeman .
Specials were issued with armbands which identified Specials as Special Constables , along with being issued a truncheon and a whistle .
For a short period of time after the MSC was formed , Specials did not receive uniforms like that of a full - time policeman .