Chief constable welcomes return of ‘landmark programme for policing’

The BBC has announced a second series of ‘Peelers – the PSNI for Real’, which gives a “compelling insight into 24/7 policing” in Northern Ireland.

Mr Boutcher said: “We are delighted with the overwhelming success and positive feedback we have received on the broadcast of series one of Peelers – the PSNI for Real.

“This is a landmark programme for policing. The programme reflects the unique challenges of policing a society coming out of conflict. The societal gaps that exist for people in crisis, with grassroots organisations receiving less funding and the challenges facing the Health Service delivering frontline mental health services, policing is increasingly the default service left dealing with people we are neither trained nor resourced to help.

“This outstanding TV programme shows the audience a side of society they would not normally see and I am delighted to confirm a second series.

“I want to thank all of the officers and staff who took part in this series, to do so is not a straight-forward decision in Northern Ireland because of the enduring threat to officers.  We look forward to working with Third Street on the next series to continue to highlight the amazing work that our officers do.”

BBC Northern Ireland said the programme provides “a compelling insight into 24/7 policing and some of the challenges it involves”.

It follows PSNI officers as they respond to incidents including street disorder, substance abuse, domestic violence and much more besides.

It also gives audiences a sense of the teamwork that’s required from police officers in dealing with fast-changing and often uncertain situations.

All episodes from series one are available on BBC iPlayer and will soon be on BBC network television as well.