Nottinghamshire Police is launching an innovative new programme designed specifically for military personnel in their resettlement phase. The force, which had 2,408 officers as of October 2022, aims to recruit more ex-servicemen and women to serve local communities across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.
The scheme, called the ‘Military Service Leavers Pathway into Policing’, is a pioneering initiative validated by the University of Derby and supported by the Ministry of Defence. It provides a bespoke route for veterans interested in transitioning from military service to a career in policing.
One example of success is PC Steven Van Der Bank, 37, who served in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and completed a tour in the Middle East. Now stationed in Kirkby-in-Ashfield, he is involved in various duties including drug enforcement, traffic operations, and community welfare.
PC Van Der Bank said, “The biggest thing that attracted me to the police was it is a uniform service just like the military. I felt like I was missing something in my life that the military gave me. I can survive and adapt quickly in that environment. Policing still draws me in every day with its variety. You can move through departments like response, neighbourhood policing, or CID. Promotion is real. Being a single dad, student, officer, and family man all at once is doable.”
The programme begins with a four-week pre-learning phase starting on 21 November, followed by a 12-week Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) course at the University of Derby in January 2023. Successful candidates will join Nottinghamshire Police as constables by June 2023, entering the second half of the three-year degree programme.
T/Superintendent Amy Styles-Jones stated, “We’re dedicated to recruiting talented people with diverse skills committed to making a difference. The military brings valuable, transferable skills, so this pathway supports service leavers transitioning into policing.”
Professor Kathryn Mitchell, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, added, “We’re proud to collaborate with Nottinghamshire Police to help veterans through this partnership, which could expand nationally and across other sectors.”
Jo Noakes, Director at the College of Policing, praised the scheme, saying, “This innovative programme recognises the unique experience military personnel bring to policing and perfectly fits policing’s need for diversity.”
Minister for Defence People, Veterans and Service Families Sarah Atherton commented, “This fantastic opportunity is a testament to how military skills transfer beyond the Armed Forces. Veterans can continue serving and protecting communities right here in the UK.”
Military leavers interested in joining Nottinghamshire Police through this fast-track scheme are encouraged to apply and continue serving the public in a new uniform.
Originally published by UKNIP.
