CHESHIRE Police have launched a new entry route to join the force for people who already have a degree.

The Degree Holder Entry Programme (DHEP) is an opportunity that is open to individuals holding a UK (Hons) degree with a minimum of a 2:2 classification in any subject - or the equivalent qualification. 

Successful applicants will be responsible for day-to-day duties, receive on-the-job, practical training and carry out academic work, while working towards their Level 6 Graduate Diploma in Professional Policing.

A spokesman from Cheshire Police said: "From day one, new officers can make a positive difference to their communities and earn a starting salary of £24,780 while they are learning.

"Training starts with an initial period of learning at the University of Chester and Cheshire Constabulary Headquarters, before undertaking the majority of training on the frontline alongside experienced colleagues.

"The new recruits are fully supported in putting their classroom based learning into practice as part of their operational duties."

The programme prepares new officers for the range of complex challenges that they will face within modern day policing.

Not only will they gain the knowledge and understand the implementation of law and procedure, they will also study in detail the understanding of criminology, criminal justice, crime prevention, and vulnerability and risk.

The new officers will also obtain a wider knowledge around specialist disciplines such as digital policing, counter terrorism, investigation and response policing, to help them navigate the challenges of 21st century policing.

When the new officers have passed the initial two-year period, they have the opportunity to apply for specialist roles such as detective, roads and crime officers, dog handlers, rural crime officers, firearms officers, crime scene and domestic abuse investigators, forensics, drone pilot and intelligence roles. Policing truly is a career like no other with endless prospects!