Nottinghamshire Police Launch Groundbreaking Military-to-Cops Scheme
Nottinghamshire Police and the University of Derby have teamed up to launch the UK’s first direct employment pathway for military veterans to join the police force during their resettlement period.
First Cohort Rolls Out After Training
The pioneering programme celebrated its first passing out parade on 7 July 2023 at Nottinghamshire Police headquarters. The six recruits have completed their initial 12 weeks of intensive training and are now deployed across Response teams, tackling emergency and non-emergency calls throughout Nottinghamshire.
These quickfire cops have been fast-tracked through year one of the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA). Once they complete the PCDA, they’ll graduate as fully qualified police officers.
Bomb Disposal Vet Now a Beat Buster
Among the trailblazers is PC Christopher Wagstaff, formerly of the Royal Engineers’ bomb disposal unit. The married dad-of-two from Mansfield praised the training and the smooth transition into policing.
“The training was really good. I’m now with the Response team at Newark and it’s great to put what we’ve learnt into practice,” said Wagstaff. “In just two days, I’ve dealt with serious road collisions, welfare checks, and stranded vehicles. The team’s been very supportive and welcoming.”
He added: “Military experience fits perfectly with the police service. Teamwork and discipline are core to both.”
Programme Backed by University and MoD
The Military Service Leavers Pathway into Policing, launched at RAF Cranwell in March, is run by the University of Derby and supported by the Ministry of Defence. Sergeant Dylan Boddy from Nottinghamshire’s Learning & Development team hailed the scheme as a “pioneering” success.
“The standards so far have been sky-high, reflecting the recruits’ military backgrounds. They’re eager to serve their communities as police officers,” he said.
More New Faces Join the Force
Friday’s parade also welcomed a new Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) and two Special Constables, all freshly trained and ready to serve Nottinghamshire’s communities.
Assistant Chief Constable Steve Cooper said: “We’re proud to be the nation’s first to launch this innovative military-to-police pathway. The skills and commitment these recruits bring will be invaluable to the people of Nottinghamshire.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Caroline Henry added: “These brave individuals have served their country and will now serve our communities with professionalism, life experience, and dedication.”
