New recruits join Northumbria Police

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness and Chief Constable Winton Keenan pictured earlier this year.

The 79 recruits joined the ranks at Northumbria Police last week, ahead of an intensive training period to prepare them to patrol local streets.

They have joined as part of the Force’s ongoing recruitment campaign to increase the number of officers across the area.

Due to the on-going issues arising from coronavirus, the Force has implemented active measures to allow the recruitment and training to go-ahead.

In the coming weeks they will take part in online training to make them ready and available to take-up a number of potential roles to help support frontline officers.

Once restrictions around Covid-19 are lifted, they will then be able to complete the remaining aspects of their training to become fully-fledged officers.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness said: “Of course, it’s a strange time to be welcoming new recruits but we need police officers now more than ever – I cannot stress this enough.

“I want to reassure the public that we’re still helping the vulnerable and doing everything we can to keep our communities safe during these unsettling times.

“I want to thank every single officer – new, old, support staff too, on behalf of the public – all selfless people working incredibly hard in such challenging times.”

She added: “This recruitment campaign is about bringing real change for the people of Northumbria."

Chief Constable Winton Keenen said the new recruits will play a “vital role” in protecting vulnerable people in Northumbria.

He said: “These are undoubtedly challenging times for us all and highlight why it is important we push ahead with our recruitment drive to increase the number of officers available to protect our communities.

“These new offices are needed now more than ever, to support the vital service we provide to the communities we are proud and privileged to serve.”

He added: “We want to recruit exceptional people from all communities, who will bring a range of experiences and who are determined to make a real difference.”