PCC candidate pledges to set up Police Apprenticeship scheme

Lib Dem PCC candidate, Matt Gallagher, has pledged to set up a Police Apprenticeship scheme which will put more bobbies on the beat. Matt is proposing the first scheme where Police probationer training is carried out before a recruit is sworn in as a PC.

Matt Gallagher, who has 30 years experience as a Greater Manchester Police Officer said: “My plan will increase Police visibility because recruits will spend less time in the classroom and more time on the beat.

"Currently it takes 43 weeks training before a new recruit can walk the beat on their own. A Police Apprenticeship scheme would increase police visibility and lend more support to the fight against crime by allowing recruits to complete the bulk of their training before they join.”

“My apprenticeship scheme would help apprentices develop valuable skills that will help them succeed in their career with the Police or any other employer. Too many young people are struggling to find work at the moment and the Police should play their part in tackling unemployment.”