THIS week isn’t just about back to school, for Northumbria Police it’s about getting more officers back on the beat.
That’s because on Monday,104 new police officer recruits were welcomed to the Force – the highest single intake in years.
On their first day of training, new starters were personally welcomed by Chief Constable Vanessa Jardine and Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth.
Both took time to talk about their plans and ambitions for Northumbria Police and underline the vital role new recruits will play in helping deliver safer streets and stronger communities for the people of Northumberland, Tyne and Wear.
Over the last year, Northumbria Police has met national uplift targets bringing the total number of officers to 3,853.
Workforce numbers are set to be bolstered even further in the year ahead through the Government’s Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee. This will see a further 95 neighbourhood police officers, 27 PCSOs and 30 Specials join the Force.
The boost to numbers also reflects Police and Crime Commissioner Susan Dungworth’s Police and Crime Plan; which prioritises having an engaged and responsive police force.
She said: “These recruits represent a visible investment in community safety – more officers on the ground, more reassurance for residents, and a stronger police presence for the future.
“My Police and Crime Plan is all about safer streets and stronger communities, and these new officers are key to delivering that vision – we’re getting police numbers back up to where they belong.
“Policing is a career that demands commitment, compassion and professionalism – and I am confident the officers that were there in the room will rise to that challenge. I look forward to catching up with them again as they progress through the training and settle in to the role. Some may want to progress into neighbourhood policing, investigations, safeguarding or specialist roles – whatever they go on to do, I am sure they can make a real difference in our communities.”
Chief Constable Vanessa Jardine said: “It is always a real privilege to welcome new officers as they begin their policing journey.
“It was fantastic to see such a large number, who have made the commitment to serve and protect our fantastic communities here in the North East.”
Chief Constable Jardine added: “With officer recruitment now open, I would encourage anyone who is passionate about making a difference and providing an outstanding service to find out more about joining us.
“We know that people want to see officers out and about, that is why we are delighted to be offering a direct route into neighbourhood policing which puts you right at the heart of our communities tackling the issues that matter most to them.”
Both the PCC and Chief Constable emphasised the importance of continuing to attract people from all backgrounds, ensuring that the workforce reflects and represents the diverse communities it serves.
The ongoing recruitment scheme aims to increase police visibility, especially in town centres as well as boosting community engagement, and tackling issues like anti-social behaviour and crime.
Northumbria is the first College of Policing accredited Force in the country to offer new recruits a direct route into community policing, meaning those who choose the neighbourhood option will specialise in this area from joining. This pathway can be accessed by graduates, non-graduates and those seeking a degree level apprenticeship.
Visit the careers website at Careers – Northumbria Police for more information.
