Police Staff Investigator (PSI) Trainees

As a PSI trainee, you’ll play a key role in solving cases just like any other officer. The main difference is that your focus will be on investigating crime rather than other aspects of policing.

Your journey begins with a comprehensive nine-week classroom-based training programme, followed by a structured period of mentoring and assessment. During this time, you’ll work on live investigations and complete your initial portfolio which should be completed within a year, on completion you will achieve PIP1 accreditation and be a fully qualified PSI.

What will you be doing when you start with us?

The PSI role is highly varied. After completing your initial training, you’ll be involved in investigating ‘volume’ crimes these could include shoplifting, domestic abuse cases, or fraud.

Your responsibilities will differ from case to case but may include:

• Gathering victim and witness statements
• Reviewing CCTV footage
• Examining exhibits
• Interviewing suspects
• Preparing case files for court proceedings

Most trainee PSIs begin within our Custody Investigation Teams, giving you exposure to a wide range of incidents and ensuring you have strong support while learning the ropes.

What progression options are available?

While promotion opportunities within the PSI role are limited, there are plenty of ways to develop your career. You could:

• Move into a specialist team, such as Major Crime or Child Abuse
• Gain additional skills to interview more serious offenders or vulnerable victims
• Complete detective-level training to become a PIP2-accredited PSI, which also comes with a pay scale increase

For those interested in further progression, there is a bespoke route to become a Detective Constable.