PC Mclachlan

From the Recruit Training Programme (RTP) straight into the Special Escort Group (SEG): PC Mclachlan's Story

PC McLachlan joined the Ministry of Defence Police in January 2019 and, after completing the RTP and his Initial Firearms Course (IFC), joined the Special Escort Group.

He describes the SEG as operating as a close-knit team that maintains a positive attitude regardless of workload or fatigue. The welfare support is exceptional: "No matter where we are in the country, if someone needs to get home due to illness or a family emergency, we have always found a way to make it happen."

Nearly seven years later, he describes it as one of the best decisions he has made.

Initial attraction

When asked what attracted him to the SEG, PC Mclachlan said "it stood out as one of MDP's most specialist units, offering unique operational challenges in the public domain that few other roles can match. The scale of operations and the variety of agencies involved made it immediately appealing."

First impressions

PC McLachlan's first impression was that the SEG was "much more of a beast" than he had imagined. The size of the group, the complexity of its operational programme, and the calm professionalism with which officers manage significant pressure left a lasting impression.

A typical week

Every SEG officer holds a secondary office role alongside frontline operations. Offices include Operational Planning, Routes and Surveys, Firearms Training, Intel, Comms, Core Training, and more. For PC McLachlan, a typical week combines planning large-scale firearms operations, attending multi-agency meetings, delivering PPST instruction, and deploying as either an Authorised Firearms Officer CT or Operational Firearms Commander.

Protecting National Security

After nearly seven years, protecting assets fundamental to national security has become second nature. "I don't think anyone on the SEG fully realises the impact they have on national security and how important this job really is."

Career development

Since joining in 2019, PC McLachlan has achieved an impressive range of qualifications including Vehicle Commander, C Licence, Fast Roads, PPST Instructor, Counter Assault Team Critical National Infrastructure (CAT-CNI), and Operational Firearms Commander (OFC). In 2022 he became the youngest OFC in SEG history - his proudest career moment to date. He is currently working towards his advanced driving qualification.

His advice to potential applicants? "The SEG is one of the best jobs within the MDP. The role is rewarding and the officers you work alongside are some of the best at what they do."

Interest in joining the Special Escort Group?

Find out more about how to apply.