Fledgling detectives pass out as recruitment window reopens with Cambridgeshire Police

Two army officers, a youth football coach and an NHS health advisor were among the new recruits passing out at force HQ on Wednesday.

The 22 men and women are the force’s second accelerated detective constable programme (ADCP) cohort, and their big day came as the constabulary opens another recruitment window for the scheme.

The recruits passed out in front of proud family and friends and were also joined by the police cadets, who were at HQ for Volunteers' Week.

The officers will now have a short period on patrol before being posted to crime investigation departments across the county.

The ADCP programme, which streamlines the route to becoming a detective constable, was first launched in October 2020.

Candidates go through the normal police officer training process, however, at the end of the two-year programme they become fully qualified detectives.

They will be trained in law and procedure and learn how to conduct initial investigations, before progressing to becoming investigators of serious and complex crime.

They are supported throughout by experienced police officers and detective tutors.

Welcoming the new recruits, Chief Constable Nick Dean said: “You are now beginning a unique career in policing. One which is exciting, varied, ever more complex and challenging but equally a career that presents itself with huge opportunities. Opportunities to make a real difference to people’s lives.”

Mr Dean also reminded them of the “Peelian Principles” of policing by consent and said they were the “guardians” of these principles.

He added: “Nothing has changed, public trust and confidence in the police is still our bedrock….and you have to play an important role in building this.”

Applications for the ADCP will be accepted from today (1 June) until 31 July and successful applicants will start in February.

There is more information on our website. https://www.cambs.police.uk/police-forces/cambridgeshire-constabulary/areas/careers/careers/accelerated-detective-constable-programme/what-is-the-accelerated-detective-constable-programme/

Online information events are also being held on Tuesday, 14 June, and Tuesday, 12 July, details of which can be found on the ADCP web pages.