379 New Met Recruits March Into Their Future
After a long wait due to Covid delays, 327 police recruits and 52 detective constables finally took to the parade ground at Hendon today, proudly marching in front of friends and family. All have been with the Met for around 18 months.
The ceremony was a grand affair with the British Imperial Military Band providing the soundtrack. Awards were handed out to exceptional individuals, with each recruit bringing two special guests to witness the momentous occasion.
Veteran Officer Watches Relative Pass Out
Among the proud spectators was 94-year-old Alan Fleming, a former Met officer who retired in 1987. Alan was awarded a British Empire Medal for services to athletics and was delighted to watch his relative, Emily Ashford from Lambeth, pass out.
Top Brass Praise New Officers and Push for Diversity
Met Police Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick said, “I’m thrilled these recruits could finally celebrate in person with their loved ones. They’re already out there across London serving with courage and professionalism.
“We want even more people, especially women and those from under-represented groups, to join. Your unique skills are vital for a police force that truly reflects London’s diversity.”
Deputy Mayor Sophie Linden added, “These officers are already helping reduce crime and keep our communities safe. Thanks to the Mayor’s record funding, there are now 1,300 more officers on the streets.”
Recruit Gina Bannerman on Making a Difference
29-year-old Gina Bannerman, passing out as a safer transport officer in Wandsworth, says she joined to protect the vulnerable and change community perceptions.
“I’ve loved every minute, despite the challenges. Being a black woman in the force drives me to help mend trust with communities. If you want change, you need to be the change.”
Met’s Diversity Drive Making Headway
- Goal: 50% of new recruits female, 40% from under-represented groups by April 2022.
- Progress: 52% of new detectives were female last year, increasing to 61.2% this year.
- Women now constitute 35% of total workforce and 29% of police officers.
- The Met employs half of all Black, Asian, and multiple ethnic heritage officers in England and Wales.
- Over 1,000 officers from under-represented groups recruited in the past two years.
Ongoing Efforts to Recruit a Truly Representative Force
The Met runs an Outreach Recruitment Programme across all boroughs targeting under-represented communities. New recruitment workers, two-thirds from these groups, engage directly with potential candidates.
Earlier this year, the Met launched its ‘Now More Than Ever’ advertising campaign featuring real-life role models sharing honest stories to inspire diverse applicants.
This drive aims to build a stronger, more inclusive force that reflects London’s vibrant communities.
