Police to introduce a more diverse focused recruitment

Women, ethnic minorities, and older people are being encouraged to join the police in Scotland as part of a new recruitment drive.

The force is also targeting members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender community, school leavers and graduates.

Since Police Scotland's creation in April 2013, more than 1,300 people have joined as officers, but the organisation continues to face financial challenges.

About 2,000 civilian staff have been cut through voluntary redundancy and early retirement schemes since 2009, with Chief Constable Sir Stephen House warning last year that support staff could face further cuts.

Officer numbers are protected as a result of a Scottish Government pledge to maintain levels at 17,234.

Deputy Chief Constable Neil Richardson said: "Police Scotland offers a varied and rewarding career for people committed to making a difference and keeping people safe.

“It can be challenging, but Police Scotland provides first class training.”

But, Scottish Tory Justice Spokeswoman Margaret Mitchell said: “Equal opportunities are important, but there has to be a minimum standard of fitness and ability to do the job and jeopardising that would only put public safety at risk.”

In response, a spokeswoman for Police Scotland said: “There is a mandatory minimum fitness requirement, but that does not mean a fit man or woman in their mid-50s would not pass it.”

Recruitment manager for Police Scotland, Lesley Thomson said: "Once you've completed your probationary training, and gained experience as a constable, there are many varied career paths available. As a frontline officer, every day will bring new and unique challenges.

"We've had an exceptionally positive response from those who have attended our recent information evenings and more dates are being planned for early February."

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