Name:
Jane Ward
Company:
Lancashire Constabulary, Local Government Sector.
Lancashire Constabulary is the territorial Police Force responsible for policing the ceremonial county of Lancashire in North West England. Founded in 1839, the Constabulary covers some 2,000 square miles. The county has a population of nearly 1.5million with a rich diversity of communities, all with specific policing needs. We have 2910 Police Officers, 2124 Police Staff – of which 272 are PCSOs and 467 Special Constabulary Officers, Police Cadets and Community Volunteers. The Chief Constable has stated a clear mission for what the Force should deliver on behalf of the people it services, determining that the purpose of the Constabulary is “to keep people safe and feeling safe, particularly the most vulnerable.
Which type of Apprenticeships do you offer?
Lancashire Constabulary offers all levels of Apprenticeships from level 2 through to degree level. The disciplines vary with each intake according to business needs but have included Business Administration, Horticulture and Mechanical Maintenance.
Looking to the future with Apprenticeships we will be offering Police Constable Degree Apprenticeships and Level 4 PSCO Apprenticeships.
Why did you choose to hire an apprentice?
Lancashire Constabulary is committed to maintaining a highly skilled workforce to deliver top quality services to the public. Apprenticeships are an ideal way of bringing new talent into the workforce. This talent can then be moulded to the Constabularies specific needs.
What benefits has your company seen from hiring apprentices?
Apprentices bring new ideas, motivation and inspiration which leads to a more productive diverse workforce. By participating in an Apprenticeship programme we have received skilled, loyal employees who are trained to our standards and understand the unique values of Lancashire constabulary enabling the Force to deliver the best possible service to the public.
What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone thinking about becoming or hiring an apprentice?
Investigate the Apprenticeship market and what progression options will be made available to you in the company you apply to be a part of. In the right company you will get excellent progression and development whilst gaining qualifications.
Please tell us a positive story regarding apprenticeships that you can share?
In 2014 we employed a 17 year old to complete his Business Administration Level 2 within the Constabulary. He had spent 12 months in college and come to realise that this wasn’t the correct path for him. He is now completing his Business Administration Level 4 and has progressed well within the Constabulary. He is earning at the same time as learning new skills and couldn’t be happier with his second choice of continuing his education whilst working.