Sussex Police launches latest officer recruitment drive

Sussex Police has opened applications for new police officers as part of its commitment to bolster officer numbers across the county.

The force’s latest recruitment window opened on Monday (September 27), welcoming applications over the following two weeks and encouraging members of the community to consider a career in policing.

The campaign urges potential applicants to ‘Change your life. Change lives’, highlighting the incredible impact police officers have in their communities, alongside the wealth of career opportunities on offer.

This financial year, Sussex Police will grow by 117 officers, building on the additional 129 constables welcomed to the force in 2020/21.  The growth in workforce comes as a result of the government’s Police Uplift Campaign, strengthened through a rise in the local council tax precept.*

Now, applications are sought for recruits to join the force from June 2022 onwards as part of the three-year Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship programme, during which they will study for a degree in professional policing practice while undertaking their training.

Applicants need two A levels comprising of one A level grade A* - C or Level 3 equivalent and one A Level Grade A*-E, or AS Level in a different subject, or Level 3 equivalent. You must have a minimum overall of 48 UCAS points.

With opportunities to specialise in a wide range of policing specialisms, a career as a police officer opens doors to roles in areas such as safeguarding, community engagement, investigations and anti-terrorism.

With this vast range of career opportunities to explore and diverse demands each day, police leaders are urging people from communities across Sussex and further afield to consider a career dedicated to making a difference.

Deputy Chief Constable Julia Chapman said: “This is a really exciting time for us as we open our officer recruitment once again, welcoming applications from people who are keen to join the fascinating world of policing, supporting us in our mission to catch criminals, protect communities and deliver an outstanding service.

“Policing offers a unique chance to make a major change to your own life, there are a huge number of opportunities to give something back to society and make a difference. Put simply – you can change lives.

“The pandemic has highlighted this in the most impactive way. Day after day we have seen countless images and stories of police officers doing everything they can to support those who need them and to keep people safe.

“We are always looking to improve our service to the public, going above and beyond for those we serve and we need the right people to make this happen.  We will ask a lot of you – there’s no doubt about that – policing offers many challenges, but the personal satisfaction and reward is incredible.

“No two days are the same, every incident is different and the opportunities to specialise and progress are limitless. We need different insights, experiences and dedication from every part of our diverse communities and I would encourage anyone that has even a slight interest to get in touch and find out more.”

Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said: “I know Sussex residents will be really pleased to see that the force is continuing to recruit additional police officers, in spite of the challenges posed during this pandemic.

“There are so many pressures on 21^st century policing requiring a range of skills and attributes which is why a career in policing can be an exciting opportunity for people from a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences.

“If you want to make a difference and think you’ve got what it takes to be part of a great police force in a beautiful county, do get your application in now.”

If you have the judgment to make quick decisions, are confident to be the first person in, have the compassion and empathy to help those in need and the resilience to serve the community every single day; then being a police officer could be the career you've always dreamed of.

Recruitment will close on Monday 11 October and it is expected there will be a high volume of applications. Therefore apply now and help make a real difference to your community.