Police recruitment is ongoing, despite crisis

Northumbria Police say 79 new recruits have joined them, despite the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

The recruits have been sworn in as officers and told that their communities “need them now more than ever”.

The force has said it wants to increase its numbers as soon as possible.

The new officers have joined ahead of an intensive training programme to prepare them to pound the beat which is being delivered through online virtual classrooms and interactive content.

Once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted, the 79 will complete the rest of their training and become fully-fledged officers.

The new intake has joined the force as part of a recruitment drive which was launched before the outbreak. This will continue, although not quite as planned.

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. Thank you.”

“This recruitment campaign is about bringing real change for the people of Northumbria.”

Chief Constable of the force, Winton Keenen, said: “These new offices are needed now more than ever, to support the vital service we provide to the communities.”