Devon & Cornwall Police Race to Hit Recruitment Target
The Government’s 2019 vow to add 20,000 extra police officers by 2022 is well underway. By the end of September 2022, a whopping 15,343 new officers had joined forces across England and Wales.
Devon & Cornwall Get a Big Boost
Locally, Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly are on track to recruit 469 extra officers by March 2023 thanks to the Uplift funding. By September 2022, 313 new officers had already started. More intakes are lined up over the coming months to meet this ambitious target.
The Force isn’t just recruiting any way they can. Entry routes include the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship, Degree Holder and Detective Degree Holder Entry Programmes, plus welcoming back former officers and transferees from other areas.
Passion & Progress: Women on the Rise
Assistant Chief Officer Alexis Poole said, “I am very proud of all the work that has already taken place to ensure we are on target. Our future officers bring passion and experience, and will serve in patrol, neighbourhood, and investigation teams supported by seasoned colleagues.”
She added, “Thanks to this uplift, more women are joining the ranks than ever – over 50,000 nationally. Here, women make up 35.3% of officers, with 42.6% of new recruits since April 2020 being female.”
Why Join Devon & Cornwall Police?
Recruitment is still open. Poole urges anyone interested to apply, saying, “Policing is a job like no other – no two days are the same, and you can make a real difference. We offer lots of professional development, specialisms, promotions, and over 200 roles to choose from.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez praised residents for backing council tax rises, which helped boost officer numbers locally by 216 before the Government programme began. “These new officers bring fresh skills and diversity. It’s a pleasure meeting them and their families, who are vital to their support,” she said.
On the Ground: A Police Officer’s View
PC Emily Smith from Plymouth shared, “I’ve been with Devon & Cornwall Police for three years. The new recruitment scheme let me earn a degree while gaining hands-on experience. I love coming to work – every day is different, and I’m excited for my future in policing.”
