PSNI chief hopes Stephen Nolan's Peelers documentary will encourage people to sign up in police recruitment campaign

The PSNI chief constable says the series, fronted by Stephen Nolan, highlights the “professionalism, courage and compassion” shown by officers and staff of the police service.

‘Peelers The PSNI for Real’ has returned to the BBC for a second series, after a hugely popular run earlier in the year. Mr Boutcher says he is “delighted” that the show is back for a second series.

The police chief told the News Letter: “The first series gave the public a valuable and unfiltered insight into the demands of modern policing in Northern Ireland. It reflected the professionalism, courage and compassion shown by our officers and staff as they respond to people in crisis, protect communities and deal with often complex and challenging circumstances. I am certain that Series Two will continue to give the public that ‘fly on the wall’ insight into policing in Northern Ireland.

“I want to again thank every officer and member of staff who took part. I recognise that this was not a straightforward decision, particularly given the enduring threat faced by many of our people. Their willingness to share their experiences has helped increase public understanding of the realities of frontline policing.

“As we mark the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s 25th anniversary, the new series offers a further opportunity to reflect on the contribution policing makes to communities across Northern Ireland and on the people who deliver that service every day. As with Series One, we hope that Series Two will reinforce the vital relationship between the police and all the communities we serve every day.

“It also comes at an important time for recruitment. We are currently seeking new student officers from all backgrounds and communities, people with integrity, compassion and a willingness to learn who want to make a meaningful difference. Policing is more than a job. It is a vocation, offering the chance to serve alongside communities throughout Northern Ireland, build trust and confidence, and help keep people safe.

“I hope the series will encourage people to consider a career with the Police Service of Northern Ireland. We want to be representative of the communities we serve and to be an employer of choice for people from every background.

“Those interested in joining us can find information about the current student officer recruitment campaign and police staff vacancies, including the application process and eligibility criteria, at joinpsni.co.uk.”

Stephen Nolan said the response to the first series of Peelers was incredible. “Everywhere I went, people were asking me about it. We're delighted to be back with even greater access to frontline policing across Northern Ireland. This series gives viewers an unfiltered look at the reality of the job, following officers as they tackle crime, protect vulnerable people and respond to incidents that can change in an instant.

“It's compelling, surprising and, at times, deeply moving television”, he said – adding that “it wouldn't be Peelers without the officers giving me a bit of stick from time to time”.

The PSNI’s current student officer recruitment campaign opened on 12 October, recruitment for Call Handlers opened on 19 October, and wAdministrative Support Officer recruitment is due to open on 9 November.

‘Peelers The PSNI for Real’ is available on BBC iPlayer.