To encourage more people with diverse backgrounds and experiences to join the police, we've talked to some of our current Student Officers to find out why they joined the Police Service of Northern Ireland.
Read Student Officer McCarthy's experience below.
“Some aspects of the training have been challenging, but it’s been encouraging to see that you’re not alone in this job. We work together as a team to support each other.”
Why did you join the Police Service?
I am in my thirties, and it has been a lifelong ambition to join the Police. My previous employment centred around working with young people, so this was a job that I felt was a natural progression and a good opportunity for me to make a real difference in our communities.
What are you enjoying most about the Student Officer Training?
I have been enjoying the whole process, especially learning about how we would interact with the public and how we would deal with difficult situations.
Some aspects of the training have been challenging, but it’s been encouraging to see that you’re not alone in this job. We work together as a team to support each other.
What do you hope to achieve as a Police Officer?
Having a background in youth work, one ambition I have is to encourage young people to make positive choices in life. I want to inspire people and if I can make a positive impact on someone’s life, then it’s all worth it!