More than 70 new officers joined Northumbria Police on Monday as we welcomed the first class of 2022.

The recruits have come from all walks of life, bringing a range of experiences and skills to the Force.

And they all have the same opportunity – to make a real difference to the communities we serve.

The cohort of 74 officers were personally welcomed by Chief Constable Winton Keenen QPM and Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness.

Chief Constable Keenen said: “It is a huge privilege to welcome new officers into our ranks.

“Each and every one of them has the opportunity to make a real and lasting difference to the communities we are proud to serve and be a part of here in the North East.

“They are joining a committed team of officers, staff and volunteers who are determined to provide the very best service possible.”

He added: “Our officer recruitment programme is still open, and I strongly encourage anyone who feels passionate about their community and policing to apply.

“We want to hear from exceptional people from all backgrounds who will bring a wide and diverse range of experiences and skills.

“We also currently have opportunities for police staff to join our organisation as a call handler in our control rooms, performing a hugely important role and making a real difference on the frontline.

“A career in policing is extremely rewarding, providing many opportunities and challenges, all of which are tackled as part of a hugely supportive team.”

The latest recruits will replace retiring officers and form part of Northumbria Police’s ongoing commitment to increase officer numbers.

They will now begin an extensive training programme, which will include time in the classroom and on patrol alongside their more experienced colleagues.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, said: “It’s always a good day for the force when classes full of new recruits come together to begin their training for careers in fighting and preventing crime.

“I know people want to see more officers on the streets, we all do, but there is a lot of police work that goes on behind the scenes too, involving investigations and safeguarding and whatever role these recruits go on to do, it will be a valuable one and I wish them every success.

“This latest cohort means we are continuing to smash Government recruitment targets because quite frankly they don’t go far enough, but the Chief Constable and I are determined to do all we can to maintain an efficient and effective police service because that’s what local people deserve.”

Are you ready to make a difference?

Officer recruitment is now open: https://careers.northumbria.police.uk/police-constables/

To find out more about our call handler vacancies visit: https://careers.northumbria.police.uk/police-staff/communications-centre/