Over 300 Ex-Met Cops Rush Back to Beat London’s Streets Amid Crisis
In a stunning show of loyalty, more than 300 former Metropolitan Police officers have answered the call to return and bolster London’s police force during these unprecedented times. Just over a week after Met Commissioner Cressida Dick’s urgent appeal, 339 former officers who retired within the last five years have applied to rejoin.
Returners Ready to Hit the Streets
The Met has kicked off rapid training for these ‘Returners’ at Hendon, preparing them to jump straight back into frontline duties. The aim? To boost the force’s strength and flexibility as London battles the ongoing coronavirus outbreak.
Volunteers Flood In with Offers to Help
- Over 30 ex-officers have applied to rejoin as Special Constables, dedicating at least 16 hours a week.
- Another 307 retired officers—who left more than five years ago—are eager to volunteer.
- Thousands of public volunteers are lining up to support frontline staff in various critical roles.
The Met has streamlined the application process, urging former officers to fill out a simple online form supported by current officers acting as sponsors. This fast-tracks their return during a time when every pair of hands counts.
Commissioner Pleads: Don’t Retire Yet
Commissioner Cressida Dick has also asked current officers nearing 30 years’ service to delay retirement and stay on the force. She said:
“I’m not surprised by the number of our former colleagues who want to come back and help us keep London safe at this time, but I am incredibly grateful to them. The desire to serve the public and support your team runs deep in all police officers, and they understand better than anyone the challenges facing their colleagues. It is humbling to see so many volunteers stepping up to support their city and police—giving their time for free. This generosity reassures my officers and staff enormously. Their dedication will be crucial as demands on us grow. The Met is here for Londoners and will maintain its strength to serve the public during this hugely challenging period.”
