THE deadline for applications to become an officer with Durham Police is looming.

And one recruit - who joined the force 18 months ago is urging people to think about applying. 

Darlington response officer PC Subhaan Ali said: "Do it – it’s the best job you’re ever going to do.”

He applied for the force with no policing experience but said it was the best decision he ever made.

“I joined and I love it,” he said. “Policing is a marathon not a sprint – that’s something the chief said to me on my very first shift and it’s just trying to understand that every day is a learning day.”

PC Ali is currently serving as a response officer on E Relief in Darlington and is encouraging people to apply as PC recruitment is only open for another two days.

He said: “What we get taught in training is the basics to understand what it’s going to be like but it’s not until you’re actually out there that you know what it’s like because in training you could be dealing with scenarios with just one thing and then in real life be on a job and have that element and another three come in and it’s just about using your skill set, your decision making, being calm and relaxed and just getting the job done.”

PC Ali added: “What you see and what you see on TV makes a big difference but it’s not until you’re actually in the job itself that you understand that everything on TV isn’t what it is.”

PC Ali praised his fellow colleagues, who often have to deal with a whole range of incidents in a career where two days are never the same.

He said: “We bounce off each other and we’re here to make sure everyone’s safe, everyone’s happy and we offer that service to the public.

“The shift I’m on is brilliant. It’s hard work but it’s also good banter as well – you’ve got to have a bit crack as well.”

Durham Police says it has already received dozens of applications ahead of the deadline cut-off tomorrow.

The force is looking for individuals who are hardworking, can apply common sense, relish a challenge and possess a minimum of two A Levels.

Successful applications will be able to complete a Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship in conjunction with Northumbria University.

Under the degree apprenticeships, student officers will study towards a degree in Professional Policing Practice as part of a three-year training programme while working as a police officer.

The university fees will be paid for by the force and students will be paid police officers from day one, with a starting salary of £24,780.

Graduates who apply may be able to complete a two-year shortened diploma course.

The force is also keen to hear from applicants from under-represented and diverse groups.

People have until 5pm on Friday, July 30, to submit an application.

Download an application pack here: Police Constable July 2021 – Advert & Application (durham.police.uk)

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