POLICE Scotland is continuing to encourage people to consider a career in rural policing as efforts continue to boost officer numbers across Argyll and Bute.
The force has been promoting the benefits of working in remote and rural communities, where officers can play a key role in supporting local people and making a visible difference.
Chief constable Jo Farrell described policing as ‘a varied, challenging and hugely rewarding career’, adding that the organisation is keen to attract recruits who reflect the communities they serve.
She said there are valuable opportunities for those interested in working in rural areas, where the nature of the job can be very different from city policing.
Chief Superintendent Gary I’Anson, local police commander for Argyll and West Dunbartonshire, echoed those comments, highlighting the unique experience on offer.
He said: “Argyll and West Dunbartonshire is a diverse area with ample opportunity for officers who want to experience rural policing on our islands and in our communities.”
Local insight has also been provided by Dunoon-based police sergeant Stuart Brannan, who has more than 20 years of experience and longstanding family ties to policing in the area.
Brannan began his career as a special constable in Dunoon before joining full-time in 2006, and has since undertaken a range of roles including response policing, CID and his current post as divisional support sergeant.
He said the reality of the job goes far beyond enforcement, adding: “When I joined, I thought policing was about catching criminals and wearing the uniform — and yes, that’s part of it, but what I’ve learned over two decades is that this job is really about people.
“It’s about being there on someone’s worst day — and sometimes their best. It’s about standing up when something isn’t right, even when it’s difficult.”
Brannan acknowledged that recruiting officers to areas such as Dunoon can be a challenge, but said the rewards of working in a close-knit community are significant.
He continued: “Dunoon is an area Police Scotland sometimes struggles to recruit to long term, but places like this need officers who care — not just about the law, but about the people behind it.
“You’ll know the streets, the families and the local challenges, and you’ll see the difference you can make day in, day out. The impact you have in a place like Dunoon is very different from a big city.”
He added that while the role can be demanding, it offers a strong sense of purpose.
He concluded: “I won’t pretend it’s easy — there are long nights and tough decisions, but you build resilience, confidence and teamwork, and you’re part of something bigger than yourself.
“If you’re considering joining, ask yourself: do you want a job, or do you want a role where what you do actually matters?”
Police Scotland says it will continue to promote careers in rural areas as it looks to attract the next generation of officers to serve communities across Argyll and Bute.
