Applications to join one of the top-performing forces in the country officially opened at 9am today (Friday, April 29) with potential new recruits having until 5pm on Friday, May 13 to submit their application.
The force is opening applications for those interested in joining the constabulary through the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) and the Degree Holder Entry Programme (DHEP) schemes, as part of the Government’s pledge to recruit 20,000 new officers.
Under the degree apprenticeship, student officers will study towards a degree in Professional Policing Practice through Northumbria University while working as a frontline officer, splitting their time between practical, on-the-job training and classroom-based learning. Students will be paid officers from day one, with a starting salary of £24,780, which eventually rises to £41,130, and university fees will be paid for by the force.
The DHEP is for applicants who already have a degree in any subject area. Applicants will spend two years working as a frontline officer while working towards a graduate diploma in Professional Policing Practice.
A third pre-join route is available for those who have already completed the Professional Policing Degree. These entrants will also do two years’ probation.
Applicants who have already passed a SEARCH/online assessment centre taken within any Home Office force in the last 24 months will go straight to interviews, which will take place in June and July.
Successful candidates will join the force from October.
Chief Constable Jo Farrell said: ““We are looking for motivated individuals to join our high-performing force.
“Policing is a challenging role and we would like to hear from all sections of the community.
“Successful candidates will join the force from October 2022, and during your time as a probationer, you will see all operational aspects of the force and receive full support. We are looking for people who can make a difference.”
Joy Allen, Durham Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “This is part of my Police and Crime Plan to put more officers on the streets.
“It is what the public want. I am keen to ensure that the force recruits the best people because the public deserve the best.
“If you or your family or friends are interested in helping communities and businesses thrive and feel that you can make a difference, please apply.”