10 new recruits join the Force Communications Room

The Force Communications Room (FCR) formally welcomed 10 new call handlers on Thursday (24 August) at a graduation ceremony to celebrate their achievement in passing the training programme.

They join a team who answer 999 emergency calls and 101 non-emergency calls, webchat and online reports 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Family and friends attended police headquarters in Welwyn Garden City, with Chief Constable Charlie Hall offering his congratulations to the newest recruits. He said: “It is a great achievement to have completed your training. It is brilliant to be able to celebrate with your loved ones and showcase all your dedication and hard work. Working in our control room is frontline work, although you may not be out seeing people face-to-face, you are the first contact someone has with the constabulary.

“Often, people on the other end of the phone are calling us during the worst times of their lives. You will deal with a range of situations including road traffic collisions, traumatic incidents, or assaults. The extensive training you have completed will enable you to meet these challenges and you won’t be doing it alone - you’ll have the support of our entire policing family.

“Working in the FCR is hugely rewarding and you have the opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives. I wish you all the very best.”

We are currently recruiting for more communications operators with applications short-listed on a weekly basis.

Call handlers work flexibly, including weekends, and evenings/nights, to answer emergency and non-emergency calls and direct resources across the county. The starting salary is £29,331 inclusive of shift allowance, if you work full-time.

You’ll be supported by a friendly team and welcomed, whatever your background.

Find out more and apply now: Communications operator (opens in a new window).