Rising interest in policing as recruitment fairs draw positive response

The Barbados Police Service is reporting a marked increase in applications as it continues to host recruitment fairs aimed at attracting new talent and strengthening its ranks.

Acting Commissioner of Police with responsibility for Human Resources and Administration, Stephen Herbert, has described the recent recruitment drive at Weymouth, St Michael, as “an astounding success”, noting a significant rise in applications compared with previous years.

He said the response showed that Barbadians are eager to support the positive changes taking place within the service.

“This momentum is encouraging for us, and it reinforces our belief that the future of policing in Barbados is both bright and promising.”

Herbert was speaking on Saturday at the opening of another recruitment fair, held at Golden Square in Bridgetown.

“Our mission in this recruitment fair is clear: we want to ensure that our service continues to reflect the very best of our society and that we are equipped with the talent and the energy required to keep our nation safe.”

The police service is seeking to fill 250 vacancies across a wide range of areas, including frontline policing, community outreach, investigations, support services and administration.

Appealing directly to residents, Herbert said, “The importance of this recruitment drive cannot be overstated. Barbados needs you. It needs you, our citizens, to step forward and answer the call to serve.” He added, “There is a place for you within our ranks.”

He encouraged potential applicants to speak with officers on site, learn from their experiences, gain insight into the challenges and rewards of the profession, and consider how they could help build safer communities.

Saturday’s fair was interactive, allowing attendees to meet officers from various divisions and explore potential career paths.

Among those taking in the exhibits was Acting Deputy Commissioner Sonia Boyce, the first woman to hold the post. She also encouraged interested persons to visit the fairs and consider the opportunities available within the service.

Reflecting on her historic appointment, she said, “We have been hearing of breaking the proverbial glass ceiling. I think I can say that I have stepped into that realm,” adding, “I am grateful to be given the opportunity to serve at this level.”

Additional recruitment fairs are planned for the new year in Speightstown, St Peter, and Six Roads, St Philip. (STT)