Metropolitan Police uses new museum to attract recruits

The Met Collection, which was officially opened by Metropolitan Police commissioner Sir Paul Stephenson yesterday, houses artefacts and paraphernalia showing the history of London's police service - including vintage photographs, maps, equipment and uniforms as well as one of the original costumes from the television series, Dixon of Dock Green.

But the collection will serve another purpose - to inspire visitors that a career in the Metropolitan Police Service might be the right opportunity for them.

Speaking to HR magazine at the opening of the collection in West Brompton, the Metropolitan Police Service's HR director Martin Tiplady said: "This used to be a careers office but now it has a dual purpose. We will hold recruitment events here and there will always be a desk so people can get some more information on working for the organisation."

He describes the collection as "small but beautiful" and the pieces on display are expected to change every two to three months. The centre is open on weekdays between 10am and 4pm and admission is free.

Would-be recruits will have access to a wealth of literature and interactive activities to get further information about the Metropolitan Police Service and how to apply for a career.

Tiplady hopes existing staff will also visit the exhibition and take pride in their organisation. He added: "The Metropolitan Police has a long and distinguished history and [we hope] new staff and officers coming into the Met will be inspired and get a sense of our history and pride."