Why Barbados needs more young people in the Police Service

At a time when Barbados faces growing concerns about crime, drugs, and violence, especially among young people, the decision by dozens of Barbadians to step forward and join The Barbados Police Service deserves our commendation.

The recent public swearing-in of 42 new recruits was an important reminder that no matter how successful an organisation or entity may be, it requires rejuvenation for there to be continuity and growth. More importantly, it demonstrated the vital role young people can play in strengthening citizen security and safeguarding the future of the island.

Barbados, like many countries in the region and around the world, is not immune to modern security challenges. Drug trafficking, gun violence, domestic abuse, crimes against children, and increasing antisocial behaviour from the younger generation have all placed increasing pressure on the police service and law enforcement generally.

Communities are asking for quicker response times, stronger crime prevention strategies, and better engagement between police and average citizens. These demands cannot be realised without adequate staffing in the police service. Equally, the service must be manned by motivated and professional officers.

This is why encouraging young people to consider a career in policing is necessary. We commend the force for taking a more realistic approach to recruiting and moving away from the staid style and adopting a posture that makes the law enforcement more attractive and filled with a range of opportunities.

The comments made by Assistant Commissioner of Police Stephen Herbert during the swearing-in ceremony highlight the kind of police service Barbados needs. He reminded recruits that integrity remains the foundation of policing and that trust, once broken, is almost impossible to restore.

Herbert spoke to a problem that the police must concede is a growing public concern as citizens demand greater accountability from police officers as they undertake their duties. When young officers enter the police service with strong values, a sense of purpose, and respect for the people they serve, they add to public confidence in police officers generally.

Policing today is much more complicated. It is not just about arresting people.

It is about being seen, listening to people’s concerns, and working with them to prevent crimes before they happen and to solve them as quickly as possible.

The value of having young people join the police service is their insight into how young people think, what triggers them, their likely response to actions from law enforcement, and the lingo on the streets. Young police officers also have a better understanding of the challenges facing their peers and are likely to better connect with them and help guide them away from crime and violence.

As officers retire or leave the service, new recruits have to be trained and prepared to take their place. The significant shortfall in manpower will lead to burnout and slower response times and their ability to be present in communities.

For young Barbadians seeking stable employment, a sense of purpose, and opportunities for growth, the Barbados Police Service offers a meaningful career path. Policing provides training, discipline, leadership skills, and the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives.

But recruitment alone is not enough. We must also ensure that officers are properly trained and equipped to do their jobs well. Investments, mental health support, and continuous professional development to improve the quality of the interactions between police and the public are necessary.

There must also be constant reinforcement of the need for integrity, fairness and professionalism throughout every step of their career as officers of the law.

The public swearing-in of the new recruits allowed families and loved ones to witness the commitment these young people are making to serve Barbados.

In the face of so many evolving security challenges, the island needs young people who are willing to stand up, serve and protect. They are needed if Barbados is to continue to be seen as a safe place for its citizens and visitors to the island.