Suffolk Constabulary has become one of the first forces in the country to launch a radical scheme to recruit detectives from the general public.

Following in the footsteps of The Metropolitan Police, the force is inviting people who have no experience of working for the police to train to become detectives without the requirement of having two years’ experience of working as beat officers in uniform.

Suffolk Constabulary is aiming to recruit people who have “appropriate transferable skills, knowledge and experience” in a bid to help address a shortfall in investigators.

People with backgrounds in accountancy, IT, health, and higher education are encouraged to apply. Those with previous convictions will not be automatically prevented from being appointed.

Applicants will start their 10-week course in October or November.

• See a Q&A about the scheme here.

Head of Safeguarding and Investigations Detective Chief Superintendent Simon Parkes said: “It is in no-one’s interests to recruit individuals who cannot meet the standards we demand of our detectives. Successful applicants will have to demonstrate strong communication and decision-making skills.

“They are required to be team players and have leadership qualities. Integrity, resilience and a strong belief in public service is essential. The process has to produce credible detectives.

“Detectives in Suffolk lead investigations into serious and complex crime, often involving vulnerable victims. To secure a positive result for victims is hugely rewarding as it the prosecution of those responsible for these crimes.

“Whilst the nature of crime may change, the complexity and challenge will always exist. As well as offences such as burglary, robbery and sexual assaults, detectives pursue criminals who increasingly exploit the internet and technology to commit their crimes.

“Whilst we must never forget the value of policing experience, I believe the detective entry scheme has huge potential and will be of great interest to those who recognise their potential to work with the vulnerable who may become victims and the anti-social who break the law.

“Talented individuals, attracted to the idea of entering the police service as a detective have an exciting future. I would urge anyone who thinks this may be for them to contact us and see if this could be the career for them. It really is an extraordinary opportunity.”

• To apply, see here.

The selection process will involve a written application and assessment centre. This will be followed by an exercise designed to test decision making, observation and report writing. Applicants successful at final interview will be undergo a medical assessment, fitness test and security check before a job offer will be made.

Detective training meets all the essential requirements of a police constable. Through work based activity and assessment, a diploma and two-year probation period must be completed.

• For more information about the scheme, see here.

Those interested can also learn more about the detective entry process and relevant career pathways at an open evening, starting at 6pm on Thursday, July 20. It takes place at: Assembly Hall, Suffolk Constabulary Police Headquarters, Martlesham Heath, Ipswich, IP5 3QS.

Suffolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore said: “I’m really pleased to see Suffolk Constabulary leading the way, this campaign to recruit police officers specifically as detectives is very innovative and is absolutely right for Suffolk.

“Policing is a fantastic career with a wide range of disciplines and opportunities. I hope that this campaign will encourage a wide range of talented people to apply and I look forward to seeing the successful candidates making a start.”