The county’s first-ever cohort of officers who work as police officers whilst studying towards a university degree have completed their first year.

The officers, a group of 18, began their careers at Cumbria Constabulary in February last year when they undertook an intensive 22-week initial training course before continuing their development as police officers working across the county.

This cohort was the first in Cumbria to enter the police service by the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) route, which is a three-year training programme which sees the individual study for a degree in Professional Policing Practice with the University of Central Lancashire whilst serving as a police officer.

PC Charlie Parsonage, who is a one of the officers who has completed her first year and is a response officer in west Cumbria, said: “My first year in policing has been equally brilliant and challenging, especially when joining the force just prior to a global pandemic.

"It is fair to say there have been some highs and lows but policing really is a job like no other, every day is completely different and I challenge myself every day."

“I am extremely proud to be a part of the police, protecting the public and working alongside some amazing colleagues. I can’t wait to see what the next two years as a response officer brings.”

There are a number of ways in which individuals who wish to embark on a career as a police officer can apply to join Cumbria Constabulary, with bespoke training for those without a degree or those with pre-existing degree qualifications.

Superintendent Lisa Hogan, head of people at Cumbria Constabulary, said: “This is a pleasing milestone for this cohort to achieve. They have come so far in just one year and are proactively making a positive difference to our communities.

“This new process acknowledges the ever-increasing complexities in crime and recognises the high levels of skill and professionalism a police officer needs to keep people in Cumbria safe. The PCDA route provides an individual with an excellent opportunity to achieve a degree whilst gaining vital on-the-job experience as a police officer.

“Our constabulary remains one of the highest performing forces in the UK and Cumbria is one of the safest places to live. I would encourage anyone with a passion to serve the public and is looking for a rewarding career to consider applying.”