Sussex Police Fast-Track New Detectives in Groundbreaking Programme
Sussex Police has launched its new fast-track Detective Constable Degree-Holder Entry Programme (DHEP), welcoming 19 trainee detectives this week. These recruits are among the first nationwide to undergo the intensive two-year course, designed to sharpen their investigative skills.
New Recruits Sworn In at Special Ceremony
Alongside 28 officers starting the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship, the 47 recruits were officially welcomed by Chief Constable Jo Shiner and Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne during an attestation ceremony on Tuesday, 29 September.
Chief Constable Jo Shiner said: “It was a pleasure to welcome these 47 new officers. Sussex Police is proud to be one of the first forces in the country to launch the fast-track Detective DHEP in partnership with the University of Cumbria.”
She added that the new entry routes aim to create a diverse force with the skills needed for modern policing. “As crime and technology evolve, so does our need for specialist investigators tackling cybercrime, online sex offenders, serious organised crime, and protecting vulnerable people.”
From Trainees to Specialist Detectives in Two Years
The recruits will first spend 30 weeks training together, developing essential frontline skills. Detective trainees will then focus on investigations, working towards a Diploma in Professional Policing Practice and full detective accreditation over two years.
After training, they will join investigation teams or safeguarding units across Sussex, tackling serious and complex crime.
Meet the Ambitious New Detectives
- PC Alicia Smith aims to join safeguarding units to protect vulnerable community members. “I was inspired by detectives’ dedication to victims and the real impact they make,” she said.
- PC Imogene Robinson, ex-Border Force and criminology graduate, wants to work on major and serious crimes.
- PC Hannah Richards, a Regional Pride of Britain winner, uses her resilience to support victims after personal tragedy.
- PC Laura Duke has experience with the UK Border Agency and domestic abuse charities. She’s passionate about justice. “The fast-track route values my experience and emotional resilience. At 39, and a working mother, I’m chasing my dream career,” she said.
- PC Jaimine Shahid, starting the three-year Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship, said: “Today is the biggest day of my life. I want to inspire the BAME community and break down barriers.”
Leaders Praise Forward-Thinking Recruitment
Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne praised the initiative: “Sussex Police is leading the way with these new entry routes, preparing officers for the challenges of 21st-century policing.”
She said the recruits’ enthusiasm to make a lasting difference was clear after the ceremony.
National Collaboration on Police Training
Sussex Police is one of three forces rolling out the new DHEP scheme, which combines practical and academic learning in partnership with the University of Cumbria and the Police Education Consortium.
Gary Slater, Principal Lecturer for Policing at University of Cumbria, said: “We’re proud to collaborate with Sussex Police on these innovative programmes, helping to train over 1,000 new recruits in south-east England and raising policing standards to match other professions like nursing and teaching.”
The fast-track detective training represents a major step forward in recruiting and developing specialist officers equipped to tackle modern crime with cutting-edge skills.
