Wiltshire Police Smash Recruitment Target in National Uplift Drive
Wiltshire Police has exceeded its recruitment target, adding more officers than planned as part of the Government’s three-year Police Uplift Programme. The scheme aims to boost officer numbers by 20,000 across England and Wales by March 2023.
More Officers Than Expected on Wiltshire Streets
The force was tasked with recruiting 164 extra officers above standard numbers, aiming for a total of 1,189 by March 2023. Thanks to intense recruitment efforts, Wiltshire didn’t just meet this goal—they surpassed it by seven, reaching 1,196 officers on duty.
Since the start of the Uplift Programme, Wiltshire has recruited 459 officers in total, including 412 new recruits and returnees, plus 47 transfers from other forces. The gender balance is improving too, with women now making up 39% of officers, while ethnic minority representation has doubled from 20 to 40 since 2019.
New Recruits Flood In as Police Force Grows
Just this year alone, 85 student officers began training. Last Wednesday, 18 more swore their oath at an attestation ceremony. To keep numbers topped up at 1,189, Wiltshire plans to recruit another 160 officers over the next 12 months.
Interest in joining remains strong, with over 3,200 applications in the past five years.
Deputy Chief Constable and PCC Praise Recruitment Success
“This is a much-needed boost for Wiltshire,” said Deputy Chief Constable Paul Mills. “These additional officers will play a key role in delivering the more visible police service that the public wants from their community policing teams.”
“It’s been a massive team effort. I thank everyone involved and every individual dedicating themselves to a career in public service. We need more people to consider policing – it’s a diverse career where you can make a real difference locally.”
“All new recruits receive first-class, fully funded training leading to a degree-level qualification, with great chances to specialise in roles like CID, roads policing, and firearms,” added DCC Mills.
Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson also welcomed the news:
“Visible, proactive policing makes people feel safer. Residents have told us they want more officers in frontline community roles. Wiltshire now has its highest number of officers since 2010.”
“These extra officers will bring stability to neighbourhood teams, supported by a new command structure allowing local inspectors to focus resources on tackling community issues fast.
“Both the Chief Constable and I remain committed to providing a quality policing service that meets community needs, tackles crime, delivers justice, and supports vulnerable people.”
Careers in Policing – Join Wiltshire’s Force Today
Anyone interested in joining Wiltshire Police can register their interest at www.wiltshire.police.uk/careers and take the first step toward a rewarding career protecting their community.
