The Government is considering establishing a reservist police force to allow highly skilled specialists and former officers to join in the fight against crime, The Telegraph can reveal.

Operating along similar lines to the Armed Forces reserve, recruits could be called upon in times of increased demand to support regular officers.

Retired officers, or those who have left the service early, could also be retained for a period in order to bolster numbers, especially in experienced ranks.

Volunteers would be rewarded for their time and the scheme would also help cement relationships between the police and wider society, it is said.

But the real value is thought to be in persuading highly trained professionals from the private sector – especially in fields such as cyber security and digital technology – to volunteer their time and skills.

Police leaders believe by tapping into the technological expertise available in big business they will be better placed to develop their digital crime fighting skills.

It has long been recognised that relatively low police salaries mean forces are unable to compete with private firms when it comes to attracting the brightest and best from the IT sector.

But by developing a police reserve, volunteers could be persuaded to work alongside regular officers for a set period each year.

While volunteers would likely be paid for their time, those working on the scheme are also considering how else they could be attracted, with one idea being tax incentives.

While still in its very early stages, police representatives have met with the Prime Minister and Home Secretary to discuss the plans. Downing Street is said to be keen on developing the scheme.

The idea is supported by a number of leading officers and also has backing within the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners.

One source involved in the discussions said: “Developing a reservist force would allow public spirited volunteers with a range of skills, expertise and abilities to feel like they are giving something back.

“There are reservists in the Armed Forces and in the Fire Service so this would be a logical step and could really benefit policing in the future as the nature of crime changes.

“It would also mean that the invaluable experience held by officers who retire in their 50s would not be lost, as they could remain members of a reserve force.

“Retention is also becoming a real issue with many officers leaving the service after a few years, tempted by higher salaries outside. But this would allow those who still love policing to remain connected.”