Wiltshire Police offer non-degree entry route for new officers

Wiltshire Police wants to attract a more diverse range of candidates to become police constables

Wiltshire Police has launched a new entry programme to allow aspiring officers to join without having to commit to studying for a degree.

It has started the Police Constable Entry Programme (PCEP) in the hope it will bring in a wider range of people.

Deputy Chief Constable, Craig Dibdin, said the scheme would help reach people who "may have been deterred by the degree apprenticeship route".

Applications can be made on Wiltshire Police's website until 10 March.

Successful candidates will be expected to start training in September.

'Different backgrounds'

DCC Dibdin explained that the new entry route is open to all.

He said: "Successful policing is primarily about solving complex problems.

"We're committed to reaching a diverse range of candidates which reflect the communities we serve.

"People with different backgrounds, thinking, views and experiences. The more diverse we are, the better we are. " 

The force is also interested in hearing from those who have come from other service careers, such as the military and other police staff roles.

DCC Dibdin encouraged "anyone looking for a challenging and rewarding career in policing" to apply.

Several police forces have already introduced an entry route for officers without the need for a degree, such as West Mercia, Surrey and Sussex.