Become a Met Police officer | PC Daniel Bukenya

Summary

Daniel Bukenya, a response officer with the Met, shares his experiences since joining in 2021 through the degree holder entry program. He highlights the diverse backgrounds of his colleagues and the varied nature of police work in London. Daniel finds fulfillment in helping victims and seeing justice served. His role involves initial training in legislation and practical skills, followed by hands-on street duties. He emphasizes the rewarding aspects of his job and the numerous specializations available within the Met, showcasing a dynamic and inclusive environment for officers.

Takeaways

• 😀 Daniel Bukenya is a response officer for the Met, responsible for responding to daily calls in London.
• 📚 He joined the Met in 2021 through the degree holder entry program, which is a two-year course for graduates.
• 🏫 The initial four months include university training focused on legislation, case law, and basic police training.
• 👮‍♂️ After the university phase, recruits spend two months on street duties under the guidance of experienced officers.
• 🌍 Daniel noted the diversity within the police force, highlighting the range of backgrounds among officers.
• 👍 He has received positive feedback from others regarding his role, particularly as a young Black officer.
• 🚓 Daniel finds the response officer role rewarding, especially when helping victims and seeing justice served.
• 🔄 Every day on the job is different, showcasing the variety in the responsibilities of a response officer.
• 🔍 The Met offers various specializations, such as traffic, counterterrorism, and financial crime, catering to diverse interests.
• 💼 There is an opportunity for everyone within the Met, encouraging a broad range of careers in policing.

Q & A

Who is Daniel Bukenya?

Daniel Bukenya is a response officer with the Metropolitan Police in London, having joined in 2021 through the Degree Holder Entry Program.

What is the Degree Holder Entry Program?

The Degree Holder Entry Program is a two-year course for individuals who already hold a degree, combining academic learning with practical training to prepare them for a career in policing.

What does the initial training for new officers involve?

Initial training lasts for four months and includes learning legislation, case law, and basic police training, along with personal safety training and practical skills.

What does the two-month street duties phase entail?

During the two-month street duties phase, recruits work in uniform alongside more experienced officers to gain hands-on experience in policing the streets of London.

What surprised Daniel about his colleagues in the police force?

Daniel was surprised by the diversity of his colleagues, noting that they came from various backgrounds and cultures, which contributed to a rich and inclusive workplace.

How does Daniel feel about the public's perception of him as a young black officer?

Daniel has encountered curiosity from the public, with many expressing surprise at his young age and background, which has sparked conversations about his role and experiences.

What aspects of the job does Daniel find most rewarding?

Daniel finds the job rewarding when he can see cases through to resolution, especially when victims feel relieved or happy after justice is served.

What opportunities does the Metropolitan Police offer to its officers?

The Metropolitan Police provides various specialization opportunities, including roles in traffic management, counter-terrorism, financial crime, and the marine unit, allowing officers to find their niche.

What inspired Daniel to become a response officer?

Daniel was inspired by a desire to help people, finding fulfillment in being able to make a difference in the community and assist victims of crime.

How does Daniel describe the nature of his work as a response officer?

Daniel describes his work as varied and dynamic, emphasizing that every day in the role is different, which keeps him engaged and motivated.