The Met Police has announced that officers will soon be able to train and take up part time roles in a UK policing first.
From November, new recruits will be able to complete their training part-time and hit the streets of London in a similar role.
It said it hopes the decision will make the position "more attractive to those who may consider a career in policing but feel unable to because of family or other commitments".
Commissioner Cressida Dick said: "The case for doing this was clear - we know that one of the obstacles stopping some people from fulfilling their dream of becoming a police officer has been the lack of flexibility in how they have to train and balance their family life.
"We will continue to break down barriers where we know they exist, as we strive to open up a career in policing with the Met to even more people.
"Policing really is a fantastic and rewarding career so if you want to join us – sign up now."
Until now, all new police constable recruits had to complete their training and their probationary period full-time before they could apply for part-time working.
However, now new recruits will be able to opt into alternative working patterns from the point of application.
Commander Catherine Roper, Professionalism, said: “I am thrilled that the Met is now able to offer this opportunity. Many people wish to join our incredible organisation but have other responsibilities that make a full-time commitment extremely difficult. We hope that offering the opportunity to both train and work on a part-time basis may help more people choose policing as a career.”
The first intake of constables will begin training in November - these officers will be posted to one of the Met’s 12 Command Units across London.
Part-time working includes weekend, bank holidays and all shift patterns.
