Police officers will need to be brought over from UK

Thursday 14 October 2021

Guernsey Police is planning to bring over 10 officers from the UK because of a shortage in available staff.

Bailiwick Law Enforcement has made a finance application to have the UK police officers seconded to Guernsey between 1 and 22 December 2021, and 3 January and 31 March 2022.

This decision follows a briefing with the Committee for Home Affairs, which was "supportive" of the plans, in light of staff shortages while permanent officers complete essential training.

Pictured: Guernsey Police has recently undertaken a summer recruitment campaign for local recruits.

Guernsey Police said: “The Covid-19 pandemic, and the two local lockdowns, have prevented officers at Guernsey Police from attending mandatory and specialist training courses, because off-island travel has not been possible without restrictions and training course providers have not been able to come to Guernsey. 

“Training is a key part of the organisation as it both allows staff to keep up to date and accredited in essential operational and specialist skills which ensure public and officer safety.”  

With the current staff levels (136 police officers as of 22 September) BLE says it is not possible to both maintain the required staff levels operationally and still fulfil these training needs.  

New recruits from a summer campaign will still be going through initial training, according to Guernsey Police. The recruitment campaign was originally due to end at the end of September, but was extended until 8 October.   

“Bringing 10 officers over from the UK will allow our permanent staff to complete this training, while their roles are covered,” said Guernsey Police. “The cost of these officers is covered by Bailiwick Law Enforcement’s allocated budget.”