Gwent Police has recruited 15 new Police Staff Investigators who are now commencing their initial 16-week training period.

The PSIs who will take two years to become fully accredited, have designated powers from the Chief Constable and can carry out searches, interviews and other duties but cannot make an arrest.

They are required to have successfully passed the PIP Level 1 and 2 exam  - the same as a DC – and will be paid between £25,566 and £30,195 for a 37-hour week.

This is the first time that Gwent have used PSIs to fill the shortage of detective posts. Across England and Wales there is an estimated 22% lack of detective capability.

Other forces including the Met, West Midlands and Staffordshire, have used PSIs to fill investigator posts. Gwent are using civilians whereas in the Met PSI applicants have to be retired police officers who have left the force within the last five years.    

In Gwent, after they have completed their training, the civilian investigators will conduct inquiries under the direction of an SIO.

The post is operational over 7 days a week from 8am to midnight including weekend working and Bank Holiday (there will be an enhancement for shift allowance and weekend working). The shift allowance applicable is 14%.

All PSIs will be responsible for all criminal investigations from the initial report, through to trial, the force says.

They will have faced a competitive recruitment process and in addition to their training, they are required to pass a National Investigators Development programme.

Sara Jones who previously worked for Gwent Police as an Invetigative Support Officer is one of the new police staff investigators starting her training.

She said, “I have previously worked for the police and I know I am interested in this work which will be so varied and diverse.

“Whilst I know my training and the exam we face will be hard work, I’m looking forward to working with other CID officers to manage investigations and achieve justice for victims. I’m excited to be part of this brand new intake of investigators, making history for Gwent Police."

Head of Crime, Detective Chief Superintendent Nicky Brain explained: "They have all passed a rigorous recruitment process to be where they are and they bring with them a wealth of experience and knowledge which I am confident will contribute to the excellent work that is already being done by our existing CID teams in Gwent.

“This is the first role of its kind in Gwent and these PSIs will expand the capacity of our teams to respond to serious and complex crime.”