BECOMING A POLICE CONSTABLE IN ESSEX · Thank you for your interest in applying to join the Essex Police family as a police constable. ... about Essex Police and the recruitment process

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BECOMING A POLICE CONSTABLE IN ESSEXApplication Process

WELCOME FROM THE CHIEF CONSTABLE OF ESSEX POLICE

Thank you for your interest in applying to join the Essex Police family as a police constable.

Being part of Essex Police will provide successful candidates with an exciting opportunity to assist us in achieving our three main priorities: to reduce crime, catch criminals and deliver great levels of satisfaction to the public when they call us for help.

Whilst the role of a police constable is demanding, requiring high levels of professionalism and dedication, the rewards are significant. Appointing the most talented individuals is essential in helping us achieve our vision and ambitions for the future.

I am delighted to provide recruitment opportunities to the wider community which enables Essex Police to maintain a diverse and representative workforce. This recruitment process will provide individuals who are dedicated to serving the public of Essex with an opportunity to make a real difference.

You can find more information about Essex Police and the recruitment process in this pack.

Once again, thank you for your interest and I wish you every success with your application.

Stephen Kavanagh Chief Constable

BECOMING A POLICE CONSTABLE IN ESSEX APPLICATION PROCESS

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INTRODUCTION ABOUT USOUR SERVICE STANDARDS WHAT WE OFFER ELIGIBILITY RECRUITMENT PROCESS

BECOMING A POLICE OFFICER APPENDICES FAQ

ABOUT USEssex Police operates across an area of 1,405 square miles which borders the counties of Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire and Kent and four London boroughs. The county has a population of 1.4 million, making it the fifth most populous county in England.

Essex is home to two major ports – Harwich International Port and the Port of Tilbury, two airports – Southend and Stansted and a network of key roads. The Dartford River Crossing joins us with our collaborative partner Kent Police and is used by more than 50 million vehicles a year with a daily average of 137,411(2014-2015).

Essex Police have appointed a dedicated change team to develop ways we can better manage our business and make the requisite savings.


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OUR SERVICE STANDARDSDelivering a high quality service:

• We will always treat you fairly with dignity and respect and ensure that you can easily contact us.

• We will aim to get back to you within 24 hours if you report you are not happy with our service.

Protecting the public:

• We will aim to answer emergency calls (999) within 10 seconds and to do our best to be with you in 15 minutes if you are in a town and 20 minutes if you are in a place that is harder to get to (rural areas).

• We will answer all non-emergency calls (101 or 01245 491491) as quickly as possible. If we need to see you we will give you an estimated time of arrival or make an appointment to see you at a mutually agreeable time.

Providing a local service:

• We will give out information about your local officers so that you know who they are and how to contact them.

• We will listen to feedback about our services. We will arrange regular opportunities to meet you and give updates on our work and the progress we are making.

• We will publish local crime data on our website.

• We will ensure your local officer calls you back within 24 hours if you ring or text them about an issue.

Keeping victims of crime informed:

• If you are a victim of crime we will agree with you how you would like to be kept informed of progress. You have the right to be kept informed at least every month if you wish and for as long as is reasonable.


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BECOMING A PC WITH ESSEX POLICEWhat we offer• Starting salary £24,077 with the potential to rise to £40,382 within your first 7 years

(these figures include a yearly £2,000 South East allowance)

• Annual Leave of 22 days per annum increasing with length of service

• Police pension scheme

• Training and development opportunities

• Support and advice from a range of staff associations and services – Charitable Trust, Police Mutual

• Access to Health Services via our in-house Occupational Health & Welfare team

• Membership of Essex Police Sports Association providing a wide range of benefits and sporting activities

• On-site gym facilities at a number of our stations

• Access to the Essex Police Federation travel concession

• Cycle to work scheme

• Childcare Vouchers - You can use the vouchers to pay for registered or approved childcare, this includes nurseries, child-minders, breakfast and after school clubs, and can be used for children up to the age of 16

• A Diploma in Policing (after probation is complete)

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AM I ELIGIBLE TO BECOME A POLICE OFFICER IN ESSEX POLICE?We are seeking individuals who, in addition to the basic eligibility criteria, have a real passion to serve the people of Essex.

A small number of community focused officers will be recruited. They will be applicants who demonstrate the ability to undertake the demanding role of being a police constable. Successful candidates will perform the full duties of a police officer, dealing with local issues, building public confidence and helping to keep Essex a safe place to live and work.

As a police constable you will be responsible for the protection of life and property, the prevention and detection of crime and the maintenance of public order though a range of sworn powers in line with organisational standards.

To be eligible applicants must meet at least one of the following entry qualification criteria:

• Have reached an educational standard of 2 x A levels (or above) or an equivalent ‘Level 3’ qualification. Note: individuals with qualifications higher than the minimum educational requirement will also be eligible to apply.

• Have achieved an academic or vocational qualification gained outside England and Wales which is considered by the UK National Recognition Information Centre to be a level 3 qualification. (Please see list of eligible qualifications Appendix A)

• Have previously served, such as in the military or armed forces, or similar law enforcement agency, where the applicant has successfully completed the minimum term of service (usually 5 years) and has achieved an exemplary reference on discharge.

• Have completed and passed the Level 3 Certificate in Knowledge of Policing.• Be a serving Special Constable* with Essex Police who has attained independent

patrol status at the time of application.• Be a serving Police Community Support Officer* with Essex Police who has

successfully completed a professional development plan and passed their probationary period at the time of application.

• Be a serving member of Essex Police staff and have successfully passed probationary period and has the existing command team support to confirm that they are suitable for consideration to be appointed as a police constable.

In addition to meeting one of the above entry qualification criteria at the time of application candidates must also:-

• Be a British Citizen or citizen of a country that is a member of the European Economic Area (please see list of EEA countries Appendix B)

• Be aged 18 years of age.• Possess a full UK manual driving licence with no more than 6 points. • Not have applied to become a police constable and been unsuccessful at any• stage of the national Police SEARCH process in the last six months with any force.• Not have tattoos which cause offence, are excessive or considered

unprofessional. (Appendix C)• Ideally not have a criminal record. Any previous criminal convictions or

cautions (including those spent), fixed penality notices, traffic offences or any involvement with the police must be declared

• Not be registered bankrupt, subject to CCJa or IVAs.

* Candidates who are not relying on being a Special Constable or Police Community Support Officer as part of the qualification requirements, but who are existing Special Constables or a Police Community Support Officers may not progress to appointment until they have attained independent patrol status as a Special Constable or completed their probationary period as a Police Community Support Officer.

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http://www.policecouldyou.co.uk/documents/pc-guide-brochure2835.pdf?view=Binary


HOW DOES THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS WORK?This document has been designed to provide all of the information you will need to become a police constable with Essex Police. It also outlines the different stages of the recruitment process and provides key information and dates about those stages.

The recruitment process is split into three main areas:

1. National police SEARCH assessment process

2. In-house senior interview and fitness test

3. Medical checks, vetting, and references

Each of these areas will be explained in more detail throughout this document.

For the initial part of the process all communication with candidates will be via email. If you cannot find the answer to any questions within this document, then you can email our dedicated recruitment team on:

[email protected]

Due to the anticipated high levels of interest in these opportunities we will be unable to take telephone enquiries during the early stages of the recruitment process. We will aim to respond to you by email within 48 hours.

Essex Police is committed to recruiting and selecting individuals on merit and valuing the individual differences that each person brings to our workforce. We aim to increase the diversity of our workforce by working positively with our communities, to increase our understanding, improve practices and perceptions and promote equality of opportunity.

We welcome applications from all members of the community who are willing to work at any location across the county and who meet our eligibility and recruitment standards.

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WHAT ARE THE STEPS TO BECOMING A POLICE CONSTABLE IN ESSEX?The recruitment process comprises of 5 main stages. Applicants will need to be successful at each of these:

Stage 1 Police SEARCH assessment process & fitness test

Stage 2 In-house senior interview

Stage 3 Checks & references

Stage 4 Pre-employment learning

Stage 5 Joining the Initial Police Learning & Development Programme

(IPLDP)

Included in these areas are a number of steps you will have to complete to pass each stage. A detailed description of what is required at each of these steps can be found in this guide. At the end of each stage of the recruitment process you will be notified whether or not you have been successful and therefore eligible to proceed to the next stage. All correspondence will be by email.

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Stage 1 Police SEARCH assessment process

Police SEARCH is a national process which is administered by the College of Policing. There is a wealth of material available on the College of Policing website to assist applicants with their understanding of the process and preparation for the day. Essex Police also runs briefing events for Assessment Centre candidates which provide detailed information about the process in Essex.

Please note each time the process requires you to visit police premises you will be required to provide photographic and other forms of identification. You will also be required to submit proof of qualifications or other eligibility criteria. Failure to do so will mean that you will not be able to participate in the activity/assessment.

STEP 1 Complete & Submit Online Application Form Police recruitment for this stage will be via our online recruitment system. Before completing your application form please ensure you complete every section. Incomplete application forms will not be considered for shortlisting. Please take care with spelling and grammar when completing your application. When your application form is received you will be sent a Candidate Registration form by post, which will need to be completed in pencil and returned by post to the Essex Police Business Centre. These forms must be returned as soon as possible in order to register candidates for the Assessment Centre.

STEP 2 Application form shortlisted All correctly completed applications will be marked by a team of College of Policing accredited assessors. Marking is carried out against set criteria and applicants must pass both the written communication and the competency based sections of the form.

The Essex Police Business Services will notify all applicants as to whether they have been successful and provide feedback.

Again, due to the high level of interest we anticipate in this process we will only progress a limited number of top performing candidates to the next phase.

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STEP 3 Candidate Briefing and ID verification event.

Candidates who are progressed to the Assessment Centre stage of the selection process will be invited to attend a face to face briefing session. On some occasions depending on application volumes this may be a telephone briefing instead.

Essex Police will host the 2 hour event at Essex Police College (EPC) in Chelmsford to assist with preparation for the Police SEARCH Assessment Centre and recruitment process. This will also include verifying identification and entry qualification criteria.

STEP 4 Police SEARCH Assessment Centre

Essex Police run the Police SEARCH Assessment Centre at Kent Police College in Maidstone. Candidates who require reasonable adjustments should read the College of Policing guide in the first instance. Reports will need to be submitted to Essex Police Business Services by no later than five calendar days prior to a candidates allocated briefing event date at the very latest, in order to allow sufficient time for submission to the College of Policing. Please note that reasonable adjustments cannot be provided unless authorised by the College of Policing.

Candidates will be invited to the Assessment Centre to arrive at either 8am or 1pm and will remain in the Assessment Centre for approximately 5 hours. The Assessment Centre consists of the following activities:

Four interactive (role play) exercisesA twenty minute competency based interviewTwo written exercisesNumerical reasoning questionnaireVerbal logical reasoning test

Full details of the Assessment Centre process and preparation materials are available on the College of Policing website. It is recommended that you read all of these materials before attending the Assessment Centre. Further details will be provided at the mandatory Briefing event.

Results will be sent out by Essex Police Business Services within 15 working days of the last assessment day together with extensive feedback. Successful candidates will then be invited to Senior Interview.

As with other stages of the recruitment process we may vary the entry standard to ensure that an appropriate number of candidates are progressed to the next stage of the selection process. A limited number of candidates will progress to Stage 2. Essex Police may hold a pool of candidates should future vacancies occur.

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http://recruit.college.police.uk/Officer/after-I-apply/Pages/Constables-Assessment-Centre.aspx


Stage 2 In-house senior interview

STEP 1 Senior interview Senior interviews will be conducted at the Essex Police College in Chelmsford and this will be your opportunity to further demonstrate your suitability to join Essex Police as a police constable. The interview will be based on the Policing Professional Framework role criteria for a police constable. The areas which will be tested are listed below:

Innovative and open minded Deliver support and inspire Taking Ownership Critically Analyse Collaborative Emotionally Aware

Guidance around the format of the interview will be provided to candidates.

Stage 3 Checks, references and fitness test

STEP 1 Vetting checks We will carry out internal and external vetting checks on you and your spouse/partner, members of your family including step-parents, step brothers and sisters and half brothers and sisters. We will also check your partner’s children if they are aged over 10 years and any other adults who reside at your address.

Financial checks will also be carried out on all candidates. Those with outstanding County Court Judgements (CCJs), Individual Voluntary Agreements (IVAs) or who have been registered bankrupt will be rejected. If you have discharged bankruptcy debts, you will need verification from the court of this and three years must have lapsed since the date of discharge.

Should candidates not pass the vetting process there is no right of appeal.

STEP 2 MEDICAL SCREENING As part of your preparation for application to become a police officer, you will be asked to complete a medical history questionnaire which must be signed by your general practitioner and taken to your medical appointment for screening. Full details of medical standards can be found at Appendix D.

We use national Home Office guidance (see table in Appendix D). Student officer training is intensive and stressful. Home Office guidance recognises this and advises that anyone taking anti-depressant medication is unlikely to be suitable for the role whilst taking it and should

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wait until they have been off medication for two years, leading a normally stressful life, before applying. We will consider all applications on an individual case basis, however, please do consider this before embarking on the application process.

You will be invited to attend a medical screening appointment where you will be seen by a nurse and doctor appointed on behalf of Essex Police. All medical results will be assessed by our occupational health team who may require further information from your medical practitioner.

The following areas will be checked:

Lung capacity Eyesight & colour vision test Hearing test Mobility test Consideration of existing conditions Possible urine test

Eyesight test requirements You may have seen a chart like this at your opticians. The actual chart is much larger and is read from a distance of six metres. Each line equates to a standard.

The standard you need to meet either with or without spectacles or contact lenses is:

Distance vision 6/12 or better with either your right or left eye 6/6 with both eyes together. If you wear spectacles or contact lenses you also need to reach 6/36 without your spectacles or lenses.

Near vision 6/9 with both eyes together (aided).

Colour vision The use of colour-correcting lenses is not acceptable. Severe colour vision deficiencies (monochromacy) are not acceptable. Mild anomalous trichromacy is acceptable. Severe anomalous dichromacy or trichromacy is also acceptable but you will need to be aware of the deficiency and make appropriate adjustments.

Eye surgery Radial keratotomy, arcuate keratotomy or corneal grafts are not acceptable. Other forms of refractive surgery such as LASIK, LASEK, PRK, ICRS and epiflap are all acceptable provided that six weeks have elapsed since surgery, there are no residual side effects and the other eyesight standards are met.

Candidates who are declared “fit to proceed” will then progress to step 3

STEP 3 Fitness test

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All candidates will be subject to a fitness test commonly known as the bleep test. (Please note the fitness test in Essex consists only of the bleep test. There is no push and pull.) The requirement is to run a fifteen metre track in time with a series of bleeps which become increasingly faster. It is advised that you plan a training schedule to prepare. Candidates who are not successful can have another two attempts in a period of twelve weeks. However, you must pass within the twelve week period.

STEP 4 Biometric vetting Samples of your fingerprints and DNA will be taken to carry out some final vetting checks against our databases. You will be required to consent in writing to this process.

STEP 5 References

Essex Police will seek references from each of your previous employers for the last 3 years.Any gaps in employment will need to be explained and verified. If you have not been inemployment for 3 years, we will ask for a character reference or an educational reference.All references received must meet the required standard for appointment as a Police Constable.

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Stage 4 Pre-employment Learning

STEP 1 Complete NCALT modules (in candidate’s own time)

You will need to complete several pre-employment modules and computer based training packages before you join a course. A link to the Managed Learning Environment (MLE) website will be emailed prior to the start of the course, so that you can access these. The modules cannot be completed from a mobile device, please use a PC or MAC. There will also be a module for you to test your learning before attending the course. All modules must be complete at least seven days before the start of the pre-employment introductory course.

Stage 5 Becoming a student officer

When you have completed all parts of the recruitment process and the pre-employment modules you will then be offered a start date on one of our Initial Police Learning & Development Programme (IPLDP) courses.

The IPLDP course in Essex lasts for eighteen weeks during which time you will undertake classroom, practical and community based learning. There will be a requirement for study outside of course hours, both within and outside the college environment. All student officers will study towards the Diploma in Policing using the OneFile electronic evidence recording system.

Having completed the initial learning phase you will then be tutored by an experienced officer on a Local Policing Area. This will enable you to gain practical experience of basic policing and also start working shifts. Assessments of your performance will be carried out by trained staff during this period. Finally you will join our Neptune programme which will enable you to develop investigative skills.

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Police Officer Postings

Candidates should be aware that they will receive geographical postings which determine where you will be based within the Essex Police area. All postings will be allocated to reflect organisational need and Force priorities. The Chief Constable reserves the right to post officers anywhere in the County to meet skills or establishment needs.

On appointment, all officers will be posted to Essex Police College (EPC) for the first 55 weeks. During this period they will work in a number of Local Policing Areas (LPA) as part of the tutorship and Investigative Development Programme (IDM). Upon completion of their initial EPC posting, they will be posted to a LPA, which will be based on organisational need. Upon conclusion of the officer’s Investigative Development Programme (IDM) attachment, the Resource Planning Team will review the officers LPA posting and may change it to meet organisational requirements.

Candidates should be aware that in applying to be a Police Constable in Essex they understand that their posting may be changed at any time to any location across the county.

Uttlesford

Braintree

Colchester Tendring

MaldonChelmsford

Rochford

Southend Unitary AuthorityCastle

Point

Basildon

Thurrock UnitaryAuthority

Brentwood

Epping Forest

Harlow


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APPENDIX A QUALIFICATIONS – EXAMPLES FOR ENGLAND, WALES AND NORTHERN IRELANDYou must have achieved a minimum of 2 x A levels (or above). Listed below are equivalent qualifications which meet our entry criteria.

Should you be in possession of a qualification which is not included on the list you must provide research (via NARIC or independently)which will determine if it is equivalent and submit to [email protected]

Qualification

General Certificate of Education Advanced Level – GCE A Level x 2

Advanced Qualifications

Advanced Vocational Certificate of Education (AVCE) Double Award

Advanced diploma (Level 3)

BTEC Extended Diploma

BTEC Higher National Certificate/Diploma

BTEC National Certificate/Diploma (Pre 2002)

BTEC National Certificate (Post 2002)

BTEC National Diploma (Post 2002)

Certificate/Access to Higher Education

Certificate of Higher Education

Access to Higher Education (Pre Sept 2009)

Access to Higher Education (Sept 2009 onwards)

City & Guilds

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mailto:recruitment.business.services%40essex.pnn.police.uk?subject=


GNVQ & NVQ Qualifications

National Vocational Qualification (NVQ)

General National Vocational Qualification (GNVQ) Advanced

General National Vocational Qualification (GNVQ) 4

General National Vocational Qualification (GNVQ) 5

Scottish Qualifications

Scottish Certificate of Education Higher - SCE HG

Scottish Certificate of Sixth Year Studies - CSYS

Scottish Advanced Higher

University Qualifications

Open University (OU) 120 credits

Foundation Degree - FD

University Credits (Years 1 & 2)

Batchelor Degree (completed)

Misc Qualifications

ACCA Certified Accounting Technician

Certified Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) Stage 4

Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) Diploma in Insurance

Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) Financial Planning Certificate

chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) Advanced Certificate in Marketing

Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development (CIPD)

ILEX Level 6 Professional Diploma in Law & Practice

Institute of Sport & Recreation Management (ISRM)

RCVS Veterinary Nursing

(ICCS) NCC Education UK

NEBOSH National General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety

Occupational Health and Safety

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Non-UK Qualifications

International Baccalaureate (IB)

European Baccalaureate

Batchelor of Commerce Part 2 (University of Punjab)

Batchelor of Commerce Part 2 (University of Punjab)

Eire Leaving Certificate (Higher Level)

Irish Management Institute (IMI) Certificate

Titulo Professional (Peru)

Masters Degree from a Centre of Excellence (Philippines)

Inzynier (awarded from 2002) (Poland)

Licencjat (awarded from 2002) (Poland)

Matura Certificate (Poland)

Batchelor Degree (South Africa)

Inter-Community School (ICS) Diploma (Switzerland)

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APPENDIX B COUNTRIES OF THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AREA (EEA)To apply to become a police officer you must be an EEA National or a Swiss National. Commonwealth citizens and ForeignNationals are also eligible to apply but are required to have leave to enter or leave to remain in the UK for an indefinite period. Applicants must have resided in the UK for three continuous years immediately prior to application.

Although Bulgaria and Romania are members of the EEA, their citizens are not automatically entitled to remain in the United Kingdom. Therefore citizens from Bulgaria and Romania are also required to have leave to enter and leave to remain in the UK for an indefinite period.

Listed below are member countries of the EEA.

Austria

Belgium

Cyprus

Czech Republic

Denmark

Estonia

Finland

France

Germany

Greece

Hungary

Iceland

Ireland

Italy

Latvia

Liechtenstein

Lithuania

Luxembourg

Malta

Netherlands

Norway

Poland

Portugal

Slovakia

Slovenia

Spain

Sweden

United Kingdom

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APPENDIX C TATTOOSAny tattoos which could be construed as being offensive to any religion or belief, is in any way discriminatory, violent or intimidating, will not be accepted to join Essex Police. Applicants with tattoos above the collar and on the hands which fall outside of the above category will be assessed on an individual basis.

During the eligibility stage you will be asked if you have a tattoo and if you answer yes, you will be asked to provide a brief description. You should still continue to complete the online assessment stages. Colour photographs will be requested at the eligibility stage of the online assessment process.

Tattoos are reviewed by the recruitment team and upon appeal or where a decision cannot be reached as to the outcome of a tattoo review, a panel of senior officers will be consulted to determine a final decision. The panel’s decision is final.

You will be required to supply two digital photographs of each visible tattoo:

1. A distance photograph to clearly identify where on the body the tattoo is.

2. A close up photograph to clearly identify the images.

Each photograph should not be more than 1MB in size. Photographs should be emailed to: [email protected]

If not acceptable you will not be able to continue with your application.

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APPENDIX D RECOMMENDED MEDICAL STANDARDS

EAR, NOSE and THROAT DISORDERS

Concern is raised with some ENT conditions where disruption of attendance, ongoing discomfort, balance or hearing incapacity will have major detrimental effects on the operational role of a police constable

ILLNESS/INJURY/ DISEASE POLICE APPLICANT NOTES

External ear

Chronic otitis externa -Mild, Occasional

Chronic otitis externa - Severe, Recurrent

Atresia or stenosis of ear canal

Likely to be suitable

Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment – unless excluded on audiometric criteria

Impedes function, balance and use of communications equipment.

Tympanic membrane and middle ear

Perforation - Healed

Perforation - Chronic

Ventilation tubes (grommets)

Successful myringoplasty/ tympanoplasty

Chronic otitis media - Healed

Chronic otitis media - Inactive

Chronic otitis media - Active

Chronic serous otitis media

Post-mastoid surgery

Otosclerosis

Facial palsy with loss of function









Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment, unless audiometric standards are not met. If active chronic disease – unlikely to be suitable



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EAR, NOSE and THROAT DISORDERS CONTINUED

Concern is raised with some ENT conditions where disruption of attendance, ongoing discomfort, balance or hearing incapacity will have major detrimental effects on the operational role of a police constable


Inner ear

Meniere’s disease

Benign positional paroxysmal vertigo

Hearing- Both ears above standard

Hearing- Both ears below standard

Hearing in one ear above standard, and hearing in one ear below standard

Applicants with hearing aids that bring their hearing above the minimum standard

Unlikely to be suitable




Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment – applicant must be assessed carefully


Hearing standard - Hearing loss of more than a total of 84 dB over the 0.5 - 1.2 KHz range or more than a total of 123 dB over the 3,4 and 6 KHz range.

For borderline cases or when hearing in one ear is above the standard and hearing in the other ear below standard, or when hearing aids are fitted, consideration should be given to a practical test of hearing to assess functional ability, for example speech and/or phoneme comprehension.

Nose

Allergic vasomotor rhinitis

Recurrent nasal polyps

Persistent chronic sinusitis


Likely to be suitable but If there is a significant history then likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Likely to be suitable but If severe, likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Throat

Tracheostomy

Chronic laryngitis

Other laryngeal disease

Severe speech impediment

Balance disorders and vertigo




Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment but unlikely to be suitable if the applicant cannot communicate effectively


Not compatible with safety near or in water

Unable effectively to perform vital task of radio and voice communication

Usually a symptom of another condition that may make the applicant unsuitable.

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CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM

Some cardiovascular disorders can impair fitness by limiting working capacity or by risk of sudden incapacity. Therefore applicants with marked cardiovascular disorders will not be able safely and efficiently to perform the operational police constable role.


Coronary artery disease - Symptomatic

Coronary artery disease - Asymptomatic



High risk of the operational role precipitating symptoms (chest pain) or a coronary event.

Congenital heart disease - Corrected

Congenital heart disease - Uncorrected



Reassess after corrective surgery, unlikely to be suitable if loss of cardiovascular function

Cardiac murmurs Benign – likely to be suitable, else likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Requirement to meet normal cardiovascular function both at rest and exercise

Acquired valvular disease Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Unless benign unlikely to be suitable.

May compromise exercise tolerance

Disturbance of rhythm Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment May compromise exercise tolerance. Operational role may dangerously exacerbate the arrhythmia

Cardiomyopathies Unlikely to be suitable Operational role may precipitate a cardiac event. There may be a decrease in exercise tolerance.

Uncontrolled hypertension Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment May be referred for monitoring and treatment to own GP and assessed again when condition investigated and controlled.

Hypertension with end organ damage or unacceptable side-effects of treatment


Controlled hypertension with no side-effects of medication

Likely to be suitable Subject to (annual) medical examination.

Established peripheral vascular disease affecting the lower limbs - Symptomatic

Established peripheral vascular disease affecting the lower limbs - Asymptomatic



Condition is not compatible with exercise requirements of operational police constable.

Raynaud’s phenomenon Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Cold may trigger painful attacks. May affect dexterity of hands in operating equipment.

Varicose veins Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Condition will inevitably deteriorate substantially with prolonged standing and sitting.

Severe varicose veins Likely to be unsuitable if symptomatic or sufficiently severe to restrict capacity to perform operational duties.

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RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

Conditions adversely affecting respiratory fitness will limit working ability most commonly from the sensation of breathlessness


Any persistent respiratory disease impairing exercise capacity

Unlikely to be suitable Assessment should be made on a case by case basis.

Asthma Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Treated hay fever without history of wheezing


Solitary spontaneous pneumothorax Likely to be suitable

Recurrent pneumothoraces Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Reassess after treatment aimed at preventing further recurrences

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) affecting exercise capacity

Unlikely to be suitable The loss of normal respiratory function will limit exercise capacity even in the absence of superadded chest infections.

Tuberculosis - Active Unlikely to be suitable Unacceptable risk of transmission during training period

Tuberculosis - History of a previous episode of TB


Successfully treated Tuberculosis Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Sarcoid Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

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ALIMENTARY SYSTEM


Peptic ulceration or dyspepsia Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Chronic pain may interfere with role.

Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome - mild



Applicant under investigation; require close proximity to the toilet; require codeine for control; or if the IBS has a significant association with stress

Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis)

Unlikely to be suitable, or if successfully treated UC, likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Chronic conditions with unpredictable course and relatively high surgical intervention rates.

Dietary conditions

Coeliac disease

Lactose intolerance

Food allergy




Many sufferers will have minimal symptoms with good dietary control and will be suitable.

Hernia Likely to be suitable assuming > 3 months after successful surgical treatment. Untreated hernia refer to GP/defer till after surgery

Training and operational role will be compromised due to local weakness in abdominal musculature. Hernia is likely to increase in severity.

Anal and perianal conditions Likely to be suitable Persistent perianal sepsis will cause significant absence.

Anal and perianal conditions - Active chronic conditions


Chronic liver disease Unlikely to be suitable

Biliary disease

Gallstone disease

Chronic biliary tree



Pancreatitis

Single episode

Pancreatitis - Chronic



Stoma with good nutritional state and no complications

Likely to be suitable Consider need for provision of special padding on uniform belts

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NEPHRO-UROGENITAL SYSTEM

Renal disease and its sequelae can have profound effects on the ability of an operational police constable to attend let alone be safe and functional in his/ her occupation. Sudden incapacity from pain, hypertension and renal failure are the major complications


Haematuria/ Proteinurea Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment GP to investigate in the first instance

Nephritis History of nephritis and ongoing impairment unlikely to be suitable. Otherwise likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Recurrent urinary tract infections Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Persistent major urethral abnormality Unlikely to be suitable Treatment is likely to be protracted

Minor urethral abnormality Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Urinary incontinence Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Benign scrotal swellings Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Testicular tumours See miscellaneous conditions

Major congenital renal abnormality Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Normal renal function necessary to allow regular attendance and performance

Normal renal function Likely to be suitable

Polycystic kidney disease Unlikely to be suitable Progression to end stage renal failure

Unilateral kidney (with remaining kidney functioning well)


Established renal stone disease Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Irreversible renal failure Unlikely to be suitable Associated fatigue, anaemia and therapy effects not compatible with operational police constable role.

Renal dialysis (Haemo/CAPD) Unlikely to be suitable Associated fatigue, anaemia and therapy effects not compatible with operational police constable role.

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ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

A defective endocrine system is unable to properly adjust and correlate the activities of the various body systems and is not able to make them appropriate for the changing demands of the external and internal environment.


Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (type 1 or type 2)

Unlikely to be suitable. However, further information, and assessment will be needed

Further information and assessment will be needed in order to assess each case on its merits

Non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment The complications of diabetes can degrade the functional capacity of an operational police constable.

Recent hypoglycaemic episode warrants deferral.

Thyroid disease Likely to be suitable – recruit must be undergoing treatment of have undergone successful treatment. If doubt exists, likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Pituitary disease Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Can be secondary to other conditions. If these other factors do not exclude a recruit then hormonal therapy treatment can allow individuals to return to normal function.

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SKIN CONDITIONS

Skin disease can be as much if not more disabling than disease of other organ systems. Physical disability from skin disease derives from decreased mobility of the abnormal stratum corneum or an abnormally stiff dermis. Special concern is raised with extensive hand and foot involvement and the resultant effect on dexterity and mobility respectively.


Extensive skin disease with chronic discomfort or disruption of dermal integrity.

Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Exposure to irritants or inhospitable environments will result in frequent exacerbations.

Widespread eczema/ dermatitis Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Mild eczema Likely to be suitable

Severe psoriasis Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Mild psoriasis Likely to be suitable

Malignant Melanoma, following excision Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

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ORTHOPAEDIC and SOFT TISSUE CONDITIONS

Dexterity, mobility and good spinal function are essential physical requirements for an individual to undertake the role of an operational police constable.


General

Any previous injury (fracture, soft tissue injury) or congenital deformity, causing long term reduction in function of a joint or limb


Implants

Major joint replacement (total hip or knee)

Internally fixed fractures (‘metal work’)

Endoprosthetic replacements




Unacceptable risk to the prosthesis from exercise requirements. Severe implications of prosthetic failure in an active adult.

Assess on case by case basis

Risk of re-fracture at site of metal work when returning to more energetic activities.

Used in osteosarcoma surgery. Unacceptable risk of prosthesis failure or fracture around prosthesis.

Assess on case by case basis

Knee disorders

Medial meniscectomy

Lateral meniscectomy

Ligamentous injury requiring surgery or causing instability

Osteochondritis dissecans





Risk of early osteoarthritis with associated disability.

Risk of re-injury in operational role.

Risk of severe knee joint damage.

Foot disorders Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Amputations (total or partial) of upper or lower limb Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Dislocation and instability of major joints

Single episode of dislocation with no recurrence

Recurrent dislocation or surgical treatment required


Unlikely to be suitable - rarely, if excellent surgical results from stabilisation further information, investigation and assessment could be sought.

Risk of recurrent dislocation whilst engaged in operational activities (e.g. restraining).

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ORTHOPAEDIC and SOFT TISSUE CONDITIONS Continued

Dexterity, mobility and good spinal function are essential physical requirements for an individual to undertake the role of an operational Police constable.


Cervical spine

Resolved whiplash

Cervical discectomy (+/- fusion)



May be exacerbated by physical activities and driving.

Cervical discectomy will often not improve neck pain. Also there may be persisting neurological disability in the upper limbs.

Lumbar spine

Single level resolved lumbar disc disease +/- discectomy

Multiple level lumbar disease

Recurrent low back pain/ persistent sciatica




Low back pain +/- lower limb symptoms can be disabling. Exacerbated by driving, standing for long periods, other physical tasks.

Arthritis and related conditions

Rheumatoid arthritis

Controlled gout without complications

Ankylosing Spondylitis with chronic pain

Mild Ankylosing Spondylitis with preserved function

Reiter’s Diseases / reactive arthropathy

Connective tissue diseases







Progressive joint damage with degrading of operational capacity.

Assessment should be made on a case by case basis.

Can cause diagnostic difficulties and often unpredictable course. Potential for severe incapacitation.

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HAEMATOLOGICAL DISORDERS


Previously undetected iron deficiency anaemia Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Refer to GP initially for investigations and treatment.

Other anaemias Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Many of the underlying conditions causing anaemia will make the applicant unsuitable.

G6PD deficiency Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Highly variable, but an applicant may be suitable.

Polycythaemia (Haematocrit>0.55) Unlikely to be suitable Unacceptable risk of disabling complications.

Thalassaemia major with severe chronic anaemia Unlikely to be suitable Unable to safely perform required exertion.

Sickle cell disease Unlikely to be suitable Anaemia & crises.

Sickle cell disease trait Likely to be suitable Usually asymptomatic.

Mild haemophilia - Symptomatic

Mild haemophilia - Asymptomatic



Physical tasks and risk of injury may precipitate haemorrhage.

Thrombocytopaenia Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment If platelets < 25 X 109/l then the recruit is unlikely to be suitable.

Anticoagulation therapy Unlikely to be suitable The underlying condition may also make the applicant unsuitable.

Leukaemia/ lymphoma with complete remission Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Those in complete remission may be suitable following further investigation.

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INFECTIOUS DISEASE


HIV infection - Symptomatic

HIV infection - Asymptomatic



Assessment should be made on a case by case basis.

Resolved Hepatitis A infection Likely to be suitable

Hepatitis B carriers Unlikely to be suitable

Resolved Hepatitis B infection without carrier status Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Hepatitis C and D Unlikely to be suitable

Resolved Hepatitis E infection Likely to be suitable

Glandular fever Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

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MISCELLANEOUS CONDITIONS


Childhood or early adult malignancy Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Narcolepsy Unlikely to be suitable

Body Mass Index outside normal range - 18 to 30 Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment BMI should only be used to screen individuals.

Malignant disease Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Genetic disease Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Chronic pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) with chronic pelvic pain


Incapacitating menorrhagia Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Incapacitating dysmenorrhoea Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Endometriosis Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Fibroids and ovarian cysts Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Cervical dysplasia CIN 1/2 Likely to be suitable

Cervical dysplasia CIN 3 Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Invasive carcinoma Unlikely to be suitable

Polycystic ovary disease Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Pregnancy Likely to be suitable after 3 months following delivery

Termination of pregnancy Likely to be suitable after 4 weeks following termination providing there are no complications

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NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS


Epilepsy – single seizure Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment Those in whom no abnormality is found should have their acceptance for entry deferred for a period of 18 months *

* There is a high risk of recurrence during this time. If the seizure has occurred within the past 18 months it is recommended that entry to the police service be deferred for that period. If it is clear that the condition is likely to be permanent, then the applicant is unlikely to be suitable.

Epilepsy – recurrent seizures Unlikely to be suitable Assessment should be made on a case by case basis.

Migraine Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Headaches / Severe headaches Likely to be suitable

Head Injuries

Subarachnoid haemorrhage

Transient Ishaemic Attacks

Hydrocephalus/insertion of shunts

Multiple sclerosis

Motor neurone disease, cerebella ataxias, progressive peripheral neuropathy and Parkinson’s disease







Consideration should be given to applicants deferring entry for 12 months.

It is recommended that applicants suffering from MS be deferred for 12 months after the date of appearance of their last set of symptoms.

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CONDITIONS AFFECTING MENTAL AND PSYCHIATRIC HEALTH


Disorders first diagnosed in childhood or adolescence May not be suitable but further information, investigation, assessment required

Assessment should be made on a case by case basis

Cognitive and Amnestic Disorders Unlikely to be suitable Assessment should be made on a case by case basis

Substance related disorders Unlikely to be compatible but further information and assessment will be needed


Schizophrenia / Schizophreniform Disorder / Schizoaffective Disorder / Delusional Disorder

May not be suitable but further information, investigation, assessment required


Mood Disorders / Depression / Bipolar Disorders Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Generalised Anxiety Disorder / Panic Disorder / Phobic Anxiety / Obsessive Compulsive Disorder / Adjustment Disorder / Posttraumatic Stress Disorder


Somatoform Disorders / Factitious Disorders / Dissociative Disorders / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome


Eating disorders Likely to require further information, investigation and assessment

Personality Disorders Unlikely to be suitable Assessment should be made on a case by case basis.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I contact Essex Police about my application?

Everything you need to know about the recruitment process is contained within this booklet. If you still have questions then you can email us at [email protected] and we will try to respond to you within 48 hours. Unfortunately due to the volume of applications we will not be able to take telephone calls during the period the online assessment is open to applicants.

I will be 18 on the date the Assessment Centres start. Can I still apply to join Essex Police?

No. To be eligible to apply, you must be age 18 years and over the day before the campaign opens.

When does the online application process start and finish?

Please see Essex Police Recruitment website for key recruitment process dates. Other important dates will be provided as you progress through the recruitment stages.

I have applied to another Police force in the last 6 months am I still eligible to apply?

It depends what stage you have reached, if you have completed and submitted the national application form, or taken part in any stage of the Police Search process then you will not be eligible to apply.

I have applied from an area that may be considered too far to commute, will this affect my application?

Our vetting team do ask that you are within a commutable distance to Essex Police Headquarters, this will be considered at application. In this instance you may need to consider moving to an area closer to work, you will not be cleared by our vetting team until vetting checks are carried out on your permanent place of residence whilst employed by Essex Police.

How fit do I have to be to become a police officer?

You must be physically fit and healthy to perform policing duties safely and effectively. You will need to pass a physical fitness test and a full medical examination, as part of the recruitment process.

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mailto:recruitment.business.services%40essex.pnn.police.uk?subject=


I have been travelling/living abroad for more than six months. Will this affect my application?

Applicants must have resided in the UK for a minimum of three years prior to applying. However, British citizens who have been out of the country for more than six months must obtain a letter of good conduct from the country or countries they have resided in.

How does the vetting system work?

You will be asked to complete an e-vetting form providing personal information and confirming your identity and place of residence. Details are checked against criminal and national security records, other public records such as the electoral role and in some cases, credit reference agencies.

The results are assessed and suitability considered against the role. A decision will be made regarding your suitability and prior to appointment a review will be undertaken to ensure that no changes have occurred since completion of the forms.

Can I apply if I have financial issues or previous cautions or convictions?

Any financial issues/problems must be declared and will be judged on an individual basis. All previous cautions, convictions or any involvement with the police (civil or military) must be declared and the circumstances of the offence will be carefully considered.

What is meant by the term ‘criminal association’?

Criminal association relates to the association with people who may not have a criminal record but who are engaged in criminal activities or those who associate with such people. It is possible that some individuals belong to clubs, associations and organisations where fellow members fall into the above-mentioned category. If this information is known to you it should be included. In addition, if you have friends or relatives who fall into this category, their details must also be included.

Why do I have to provide details of my identity?

Identity checks are an essential part of the vetting process, including national security clearance checks and for this reason you will be asked to present original documents such as passport or birth certificate and proof of address at each stage of the process. These will be examined and copies taken for retention.

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Do I have to notify changes to my personal circumstances?

Any significant changes in personal circumstances during your application, such as permanent partner, new residents at your home, change of address, arrests, cautions or convictions or association with criminals should be notified to the Business Centre.

If vetting clearance is refused can I appeal?

If vetting clearance is refused you will be advised, although specific reasons will not normally be given to protect the confidentiality of others and the security of Essex Police. However, you can request a review, which is carried out by a person independent of the vetting decision maker. Requests must be made in writing to Corporate Vetting.

Will my medical history affect my application?

For general information regarding medical issues, please refer to www.policecouldyou.co.uk website. Each application will be considered individually by our Health Services team.

Where will I be posted?

The Chief Constable reserves the right to post you anywhere within the Essex Police area. Please refer to page 15 of this guide which provides details of posting areas. Throughout the foundation phase you will receive two postings for training and your permanent posting at week 44.

How long is the probationary period?

The probationary period for a police officer is two years.

What hours will I work?

Police officers work a 40 hour week. Depending on where you are posted, the shift patterns may vary. A shift pattern will consist of early shifts, late shifts, night shifts, bank holidays and weekend shifts. Operational demands may require your rostered shift/rest days to be cancelled and re-scheduled at short notice.

Can I work part-time?

The initial two year probationary period is full-time. Once your probation has been confirmed a request for flexible working can be made.

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Can I specialise?

Yes. Upon completion of your two year probationary period there will be the opportunity to apply for a specialist role subject to vacancies at the time.

How much is the salary?

The current starting salary is £22,077 (Point 0) rising to £23,124 (Point 1) after 36 weeks initial training at which point you will have obtained independent patrol status. There is potential to rise to £25,224 within 3 years. Student officers with independent patrol status and 18 months of service as a PCSO will also commence at Point 1. All officers will remain at Point 1 for 12 months prior to progressing to the next pay increment. In addition you will receive a £2,000pa allowance which is taxable but not pensionable.

How much annual leave will I get?

The annual leave entitlement is 176 hours per year (22 days) for less than two years’ service, rising to 200 hours per year (25 days) for more than two years relevant service. After that the entitlement rises in five year increments.

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Documents

BECOMING A POLICE CONSTABLE IN ESSEX · Thank you for your interest in applying to join the Essex Police family as a police constable. ... about Essex Police and the recruitment process