Police boost ranks with 76 new officers

It means the force is on track to recruit the 93 new officers earmarked for the region in 2020-21, part of the government’s “Join the Police” campaign to recruit 20,000 extra officers in England and Wales over three years.

These officers are in addition to the planned recruitment of 215 new constables funded from council taxes.

There are now 2,240 police officers at West Mercia Police, the highest level for the best part of a decade.

Rachel Hartland Lane, director of business services with the force, said: “Despite the Covid-19 outbreak, we are continuing to focus on our key priorities, including recruiting new police officers to help us in our response to the crisis and beyond.

“Our police apprentices are already playing their part in the crisis, joining experienced officers on the front line out on patrol across our communities, engaging with the public, explaining the reasons for the regulations and encouraging people to stay at home.

“Recruitment remains ongoing during this difficult time to attract and retain the best staff from a range of backgrounds to serve the public. A substantial uplift in officer numbers gives us an opportunity to increase the diversity of our workforce – something we are really keen to achieve to give the best possible service to our communities. Adjustments have been made to the recruitment process to ensure compliance with the current health recommendations, and to ensure swift and efficient processes to get officers out on our streets.”

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “Last year I promised the communities of West Mercia that I would increase police officer numbers after the public said they wanted more visibility. The investment I made to achieve this, along with the support from the Government’s uplift programme, saw officer numbers rise to the highest since 2012.

“I am pleased that, despite the ongoing health crisis, West Mercia Police remains focused on ensuring the recruitment is on track. I look forward to welcoming the new recruits as they step into the role of keeping our communities safe.”

To be part of the new intake of officers for West Mercia Police, go to westmercia.police.uk and click on ‘Apply’.