The Police Service of Northern Ireland has launched a recruitment campaign for both new student officers and Custody Detention Officers, calling on people from all backgrounds and communities to step forward and help build a safer, more connected Northern Ireland.

The multi-faceted campaign, which runs for three weeks starting January 14, includes broadcast and print media and will be across social and digital platforms.

It is aimed at attracting new student officer recruits for the 22-week training programme.

Chief Constable Jon Boutcher says he wants the Police Service of Northern Ireland to be seen as an “employer of choice” and be “representative of the community we serve”.

placeholder image — Chief Constable Jon Boutcher says he wants the Police Service of Northern Ireland to be seen as an “employer of choice” and be “representative of the community we serve”. Photo: PSNI

“Policing is more than a job, it is a chance to work with and for communities across Northern Ireland and make a meaningful difference every single day.

“We’re looking for individuals who care about their communities, who want to work with them to help others, and who are ready to step into roles that truly matter,” he added.

“New recruits will receive comprehensive training and ongoing professional development, with a starting salary of £35k.

“There is no other job like it and we want people from all walks of life, from all communities, to join us.”

The application process for student officer recruitment will close on Wednesday, February 4 2026 and Custody Detention Officers on Monday, February 9 2026.

“These are fantastic opportunities for anyone who is interested in joining the Police Service and, over the next few weeks, you will see and hear our advertisements,” added Mr Boutcher.

“We’ll be undertaking a range of outreach and engagement activities in the coming weeks to encourage people from all communities, particularly those currently under-represented within the Service, to apply for a career in policing.”

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The Police Service of Northern Ireland is encouraging applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.

“If you have integrity, compassion, and a willingness to learn, and if you want to make positive change for your community and across Northern Ireland, apply to join the Police Service,” Mr Boutcher said.

“Our officers listen, support, protect, and they build relationships with communities that can change lives. If you want a career with purpose, where every day is different and every action counts, we encourage you to apply.”

Welcoming the launch of the campaign, Justice Minister Naomi Long said: “The PSNI workforce recovery has been one of my key priorities. The launch, and the funding that has been delivered on a commitment to increase police officer numbers, provides a rewarding opportunity for a career in policing.”

To find out more information and apply, go to https://www.joinpsni.co.uk/police-officer.

Northern Ireland Policing Board Chair Mukesh Sharma said: “Policing offers an attractive and rewarding career choice with opportunities for ongoing professional qualifications, training and development, as well as promotion and progression. It is an exciting career and one where no two days will ever be the same. It is a career that has the ability to make a really positive difference to the safety of our community.

“As a Board we want policing to be fully reflective and representative of the diversity of the community it serves. We encourage and support people from all walks of life and backgrounds to apply for this latest campaign.”