MERSEYSIDE Police has announced plans to recruit new officers.

The force will open up recruitment lines from today, Friday, in line with the Government's recent announcement that it will be providing more funding to boost police workforces.

The force will be taking on additional new Constables and details of how to apply will be on its website from today, Friday, August 30.

It is encouraging "driven individuals who are passionate about serving their community" to apply.

Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Natalie Perischine said “The Government recently announced funding for an uplift in the number of police officers nationally, and as a result Merseyside Police is looking towards a sustained recruitment of new officers.

“In addition to this, there will be another recruitment drive in November.

"Then, throughout the next three years there will be further opportunities for members of the public to join us.

“For those applying in the future, there will be changes in relation to how you can apply to become an officer.

"However, we will ensure these changes are communicated and the different routes to become a police officer are made clear.

“We want to encourage people from various communities, who have the passion, ability and drive to deliver an effective policing service, to join us and help us better understand the needs of the diverse communities we serve and protect.”

Merseyside Police said its staff should reflect the diverse communities it serves.

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Chief Inspector Karen Wiesenekker, from the force's diversity, equality and inclusion team, said: "Often when we run recruitment campaigns, we find that there aren’t many applications from the different and underrepresented groups which can be quite disappointing.

“Being a police officer, although a tough job, is extremely rewarding and is definitely a job for all people from all backgrounds or walks of life.

"Therefore, it is extremely important that our officers are representative of the communities we serve.

"We embrace diversity and inclusivity and work as one team to provide the public with an effective policing service.

“People from different backgrounds bring different experiences and viewpoints to the force and can help us shape the future of policing, whilst better understanding the various cultures, beliefs and traditions that makes up Merseyside.

"The skills for being a good police officer includes the ability to work as part of a team, solve problems and keep calm and confident in difficult circumstances.

"The role can be both physically and mentally demanding but it is an opportunity to make a difference and ensure that the people who live in Merseyside feel safe.”

To apply to join Merseyside Police or for more information, click here.