Encouraging turnout at police recruitment fair

There was an encouraging turnout on Saturday at a recruitment fair hosted by the Barbados Police Service (BPS), which is seeking to address a pressing shortage of around 250 officers.

The event, held at the Police Sports Club, Weymouth, St Michael, had a steady stream of visitors throughout the day, with dozens already in attendance by mid-morning. Interested individuals were able to register and undergo preliminary interviews on the spot.

During the opening ceremony, acting Senior Superintendent Stephen Herbert and Public Affairs and Communications Officer acting Inspector Ryan Brathwaite highlighted the current staffing shortfall. They explained that the gap has widened over time as officers retire, leave due to illness, or transition into other careers.

“This is about building capacity. We have more people leaving the service than entering, so it is important that we keep our numbers up in order to properly serve the country. Ultimately, today is about showing Barbadians the full breadth and depth of policing, not just officers on the street,” Brathwaite said.

When Barbados TODAY queried whether the recruitment drive was linked to the recent surge in criminal activity, the public affairs and communications officer acknowledged heightened public concern but stressed that the fair forms part of ongoing efforts to maintain adequate staffing levels, rather than a response to recent incidents.

Acting Sergeant Wendell Foster of the Special Operations Management Services, Traffic Department, echoed the call from his colleagues. He noted that many Barbadians only see one aspect of policing, primarily officers encountered on the road, while numerous specialised units operate behind the scenes.

“The fair is an opportunity to demonstrate what we truly do. Persons are encouraged to ask questions, and we can better inspire a new generation of officers. There is no doubt that after signing the dotted line, you will become a more disciplined person. Today we hope to inspire those who are interested,” he said.

Throughout the day, people were able to observe live demonstrations by various units, including forensics, tactical response, cybercrime, telecommunications and drone operations. Officers showcased equipment, answered questions and outlined the training and competencies required in each division.

The public affairs and communications officer said the aim was not only to attract recruits but also to help the public appreciate the complexity of modern policing and the high standards required to safeguard the nation.

Acting Inspector Brathwaite also encouraged families to attend with young relatives, emphasising the important role parents and guardians play in career guidance.

“We want mothers and fathers to come and talk with their children about what policing involves. For those who may not be ready right now, events like this help young people to make informed decisions for the future. Sometimes they simply need to see the different areas of the service to realise they could fit in.”

He added that the fair was also an opportunity for individuals who may have never considered policing to discover new possibilities. (DT)