In what is believed to be a UK policing first, the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) has announced that new police constable recruits will now be able to join the service in a part-time role.
From November 2019, new recruits will be able to complete their police training part-time and hit the streets of London in a part-time role. The Met believes it is the first police service in the UK to make this offer and hopes it will make the role more attractive to those who may consider a career in policing but feel unable to because of family or other commitments. Research conducted by the Met has also shown working hours is one reason people feel a police constable role is not for them – this feedback was particularly high from women.
The new scheme was born out of the Met’s celebrations to recognise the contribution of women to the service over the last 100 years. However, the opportunity is open to both men and women and it is hoped it will help achieve the Commissioner’s long-term ambition of a Metropolitan Police Service in which men and women are equally represented.
Commissioner Cressida Dick said, “The case for doing this was clear – we know that one of the obstacles stopping some people from fulfilling their dream of becoming a police officer has been the lack of flexibility in how they have to train and balance their family life.
“We will continue to break down barriers where we know they exist, as we strive to open up a career in policing with the Met to even more people.
“Policing really is a fantastic and rewarding career so if you want to join us – sign up now.”
Until now, all new police constable recruits were expected to complete their training and then their probationary training period on a full-time basis before they were able to apply for part-time working. Now new recruits will be able to opt into alternative working patterns from the point of application.
Commander Catherine Roper, Professionalism, said, “I am thrilled that the Met is now able to offer this opportunity. Many people wish to join our incredible organisation but have other responsibilities that make a full-time commitment extremely difficult. We hope that offering the opportunity to both train and work on a part-time basis may help more people choose policing as a career.”
The first intake of constables will begin training in November and these officers will be posted to one of the Met’s 12 Command Units across London.
