Police Officers
All the answers
Do I have to hold a British passport?
The law states that you need to be a British citizen or a member of the EC/EEA. Commonwealth citizens and foreign nationals who are resident in the UK free of restrictions can also apply.
Will you apply for a working visa for me?
Unfortunately not. As a foreign national, you would need to already be resident in the UK free of restrictions.
I have a student visa. Is this sufficient to apply?
Unfortunately the terms of your visa would not allow us to consider your application.
Am I ineligible if I have a criminal record?
Not necessarily. Depending on the nature of your conviction, it may still be possible to apply successfully. Remember, any caution or conviction must be declared on your application form. If you're not sure whether you're eligible, please email our recruitment team at policerecruitment@herts.pnn.police.uk and they will be able to advise you.
Can I apply if I owe money?
It depends on the situation. You would need to supply us with evidence of your ability to manage your debts successfully. If you have any outstanding county court judgements or you are an undischarged bankrupt, then you are automatically ineligible.
Will I live and work in the same area?
If you live in Hertfordshire, you may well find yourself working close to home. However, you may be in another part of the county altogether. Either way, you'll find that your area will offer its own breadth of challenges.
Where will the training take place?
The initial 14 week training period will take place at Stevenage and Letchworth.
What length of probation will I have?
Probationary periods for police officers are two years and during this time you'll receive classroom-based training and will be assessed in the workplace. For part-time staff the probationary period will be extended based on the number of hours worked.
What are the hours like?
You'll be expected to work a rolling shift pattern that includes 'earlies' (early mornings from 7am), 'lates' (late afternoon to late night, or through to early mornings at the weekend) and ‘nights' (late night to morning). Each shift is around nine to ten hours. It does take a while to get used to the hours and it is important to maintain your personal fitness. You'll be able to apply for flexible working if your shifts have a particularly negative impact on your work- life balance. And Hertfordshire Constabulary will try to accommodate any requests for flexible working, however it may not be possible in all cases.
Will I have to work on my own late at night?
You might work on your own at night, or you may be paired with someone else. But whether you're dealing with a situation on your own or with another officer, additional back-up is always close by and available within minutes.
How are different religions accommodated within the Force?
Alterations can be made to the uniform to accommodate religious requirements - for example the helmet may be replaced with a Sikh turban. We also take into account the needs of individuals with regards to time off and bank and public holidays.
Can I apply if I have a tattoo?
On the whole, yes. However some tattoos may be deemed offensive or unacceptable. If you are concerned, please email a picture of your tattoo to our recruitment team at policerecruitment@herts.pnn.police.uk for advice.
How quickly can I reapply if my application is not successful?
If you are not successful in your application, you can reapply to Hertfordshire Constabulary six months after the date of your assessment centre day, providing that we are still recruiting at that time.
What's the pass mark for Hertfordshire constabulary?
To be successful here, you will need to achieve a minimum of 60% in your entrance exams.
What is the retirement age at Hertfordshire Constabulary?
The current retirement age is 65; however we do recognise the contribution that people with the right skills can make to the organisation, regardless of age. If you're approaching 65 or are indeed over 65, please feel free to email us at policerecruitment@herts.pnn.police.uk to discuss your application.
We hope this page has helped answer your queries, however please feel free to email us at policerecruitment@herts.pnn.police.uk where we will be happy to respond to any additional questions you may have.
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