The police service offers a wide range of worthwhile and rewarding career paths for PCs, Special constables, community support officers and police staff. These roles offer many opportunities for a first rate career and the chance to give something back to your community.

Becoming a police officer

As a police officer you will be expected to undertake a range of duties to reduce crime and the fear of crime. You will play a vital role in supporting victims and witnesses, providing reassurance and confidence to victims of crime, protecting the public from criminals and anti-social behaviour.

Other roles

For more information on becoming a community support officer, Special constable or other roles within the police service see www.policecouldyou.co.uk

Have you got what it takes?

Find out if you meet the basic eligibility requirements to become a police officer. If you meet these criteria, the next step is to contact your chosen force to see if it is recruiting. Once you have filled out an application form, the recruitment process consists of three stages:

Stage 1: The application

You will need to fill out an application form, a medical and eyesight form and return these. When your chosen force receives your application, it will check your eligibility and mark the competency questions you answered. If your application is unsuccessful, you will receive appropriate feedback. If successful, you will go on to stage two.

Stage 2: The assessment centre

You will be invited to attend the assessment centre where you will be tested on your written English skills, verbal reasoning, oral skills and mathematical skills. The examination will consist of written tests, interviews and role-play workshops.

All applicants will receive the written material before the assessment day. Read this thoroughly to increase your chances of being successful and moving to stage three.

Stage 3: Health and fitness

You will be required to attend a fitness test and medical to ensure you are fit enough to do the job. There are two elements to the fitness test and you must pass both. If you fail the test you will be allowed to re-take it. If you fail the test after three attempts then your application will be stopped and you will have to wait six months before re-applying. Once you are appointed to a force you will be required to maintain your fitness and will be regularly assessed during probation.

Compiled by Robert Ince