PSNI seeks new recruits ‘from all backgrounds and communities’

The PSNI has launched a recruitment drive calling for student officers and new police staff, urging applicants “from all backgrounds and communities to step forward”.

As of 2026, 67% of PSNI officers are “perceived Protestant” and 31.5% are “perceived Catholic”.

The gender make-up of the force constitutes a similar split, with just over two-thirds (67%) of officers being men and one third women (32%).

Less than 1% of the 6,334 officers are from an ethnic minority background.

Chief Constable Jon Boutcher described the PSNI as “the best police service in the world”.

He said: “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.

“New recruits will receive comprehensive training, and ongoing professional development, with a starting salary of £35,000.

“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, and potential custody detention officers must apply by Monday February 9.

Mr Boutcher said the force is particularly appealing to “those currently under-represented within the service, to apply for a career in policing”.

He added: “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, which is, having been a police officer for over 40 years, the best police service in the world.

“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.”

Justice Minister Naomi Long said PSNI workforce recovery is one of her “key priorities”.

She added: “If you want to make a positive difference in your community, policing could be for you and I would encourage you to apply.”