POLICE Scotland recently launched an officer recruitment campaign to find new recruits ready to keep communities safe in East Lothian and across the country.

Being a police officer is without doubt a challenging job but it’s also incredibly rewarding and few other roles will give you the chance to learn invaluable skills and make a real difference to people’s lives.

Police officers often have to support people on the worst day of their life and provide reassurance in overwhelming situations.

I have been a police officer for 26 years now and I still am as enthusiastic about going to work now as I was so many years ago, although perhaps not on the nightshift!

I have had the privilege of making a positive difference to the lives of so many children and adults, including those most vulnerable in our communities, which more than makes up for the anti-social hours and personal sacrifices. I also feel part of the wider police family with friends and colleagues who have supported me whatever challenges work or daily life has thrown at me.

New police constables can be anyone, from school and university leavers to experienced workers who are considering a career change. We are looking to recruit the best talent out there, from all sections of the community.

No two officers are the same and that diversity and variety of life experience is essential to earn, build and maintain the trust of the people in our communities.

You don’t need formal qualifications to join the police service. Your values, attitude and life experience are more important.

Applicants must have a good level of fitness and be at least 17.5 years old when they apply and there’s no upper age limit.

Find out more on the recruitment page of the Police Scotland website.

PC Phoebe Hamilton, one of our local policing team, says: “I joined Police Scotland in March 2021. After completing my initial training at the Scottish Police College, Tulliallan, I joined the response policing team at Haddington Police Station.

“Response policing gives you the opportunity to learn from colleagues and use their skillsets to develop in all aspects of policing.

“A highlight for myself since joining has been engaging with many different members of public and the challenge of never knowing what each shift will bring. East Lothian is a great place to learn as there is a variety of both urban and rural policing.

“I would encourage anyone looking to push themselves out of their comfort zone to consider a career with Police Scotland.”

Young people interested in the police service can get involved in the Police Scotland Youth Volunteers (PSYV).

In East Lothian, we have successfully recruited a number of youth volunteers and adult volunteers. This is an opportunity for local young people to build on skills and confidence, as well as giving them the opportunity to change the public’s perception of young people through positive participation in the community.

Within the group, young people can work towards awards such as the Saltire Award and Duke of Edinburgh while gaining a practical understanding of policing.

The PSYV will be volunteering at events as well as carrying out other duties within the community such as fundraising, letter drops for crime prevention and beach cleans to name a few.

For more information, please visit psyv.org