More than words: English as an additional language in police recruitment and promotion processes

This study explores the under-representation and potential under-utilisation of officers with English as an Additional Language (EAL) in British policing. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research identifies findings that highlight the prevalence of a problematic ‘deficit’ model that undervalues the cultural and linguistic competencies EAL officers bring to policing. Instead, the perceived challenges of accommodating EAL officers dominate organisational narratives. While recent decades have seen police forces strive to promote diversity through recruitment and retention initiatives, insufficient attention has been given to the support processes for EAL recruits and officers seeking promotion. Interviews with EAL officers reveal that current recruitment and promotion practices fail to align with the operational and organisational benefits offered by diverse language skills. Additionally, the findings suggest that non-English language and related skills are neither routinely nor effectively utilised post-appointment, representing a missed opportunity to enhance policing within multilingual communities. These issues are particularly concerning in light of the Police Uplift Program’s goal of recruiting 20,000 new officers in England and Wales, as they present significant barriers to diversifying the recruitment pool.