FAQs
Before you apply
I am exploring new career options, as I am not a recent graduate can I apply?
We welcome applications from final year students, graduates, and career changers. You will need to have achieved a 2:2 or above in your undergraduate degree by the programme start date. We would encourage you to think about the skills you have developed inside and outside of your degree, as these skills could be transferable to policing. For example: emotional awareness, resilience, and collaboration.
Can I apply to Police Now if I am also applying directly to a police force?
Yes, you can apply to your programme if you have previously applied, or if you are currently applying, to join the police via another route. However, you will need to make a decision if you were to receive an offer for both, which opportunity you’d like to pursue.
What are the working hours?
As a police officer you will be required to work shifts. Policing is 24/7, which means there will likely be times when you’re needed for shifts, working evenings and/or weekends. Before applying, we recommend that you consider whether working varying shift patterns would suit you.
Depending on your police force’s work patterns, you can benefit from a shift pattern such as four days on, four days off, which gives you more flexibility with commitments outside of work.
Application process
What skills do I need to succeed in the recruitment process?
We are looking for talented graduates from all degree subjects, who are motivated by Police Now’s mission and to become future leaders in society and on the policing frontline. While prior policing knowledge or experience isn’t necessary, being collaborative, empathetic, and having a passion for public service will help you in the recruitment process and the role.
For more details, review our competencies that we’ll be looking for you to demonstrate.
Can I use generative AI in the application process?
GenAI tools, like ChatGPT, are revolutionising how people approach a whole host of tasks. We believe it’s important to embrace and not ban these tools, but we also want to make sure we get a chance to see the real you. Read our policy which outlines where GenAI can be used to your advantage, and where GenAI is not permitted and why.
What are your commitments to candidates completing assessments?
We’re committed to a fair recruitment process for all our candidates. Here is a short guide that has been designed to give you straightforward information about the commitments we’ve made to you, and what we’re asking from you in return.
Pre-employment checks
What is the fitness test and how I can prepare?
If you receive an offer for the programme, as part of the pre-employment checks you will need to pass a fitness test. This is a multi-stage shuttle run, also known as a ‘bleep test’. Our Recruitment Officers can provide support or advice with the preparation and training for this, if required.
What’s involved in the medical assessment?
As part of the onboarding process there will be a medical assessment. This will vary from force to force, but you’ll typically be asked to complete a confidential health declaration and be invited in for some health tests. Before applying, please read the Home Office medical standards document for guidance.
Offer
I've accepted an offer with Police Now, can I defer my start date?
We do consider deferral requests. You’ll need to submit a request, which will be reviewed. If you’re considering a deferral, we would encourage you to apply at a later date that aligns with your intended start date.
Will I be able to meet other participants joining the programme before I start?
Once you have received a conditional offer for the programme you will be invited to attend an in-person induction event. You’ll have the chance to find out more about Police Now, network with representatives from the organisation and meet other offer holders. Before your start date, we may also invite you to attend other onboarding events where you can learn more about the role and get to know others who will be joining the programme.
Can I transfer to another police force after joining?
Yes, once you have completed the programme you can apply to join another police force. However, you will need to complete your two-year probationary period before you can apply for a transfer.
Training and development
What will the training involve?
The Police Now Academy is mostly residential and will take place at a conference venue. So you will need to be prepared to spend some time away from home.
Training will be delivered in three ways:
1. Residential – We will cover your accommodation, breakfast, lunch, and dinner during this part of the training. At weekends you can go home.
2. In-force – You will have some weeks where you receive training in-force, which will also give you the opportunity to apply your learnings from your training.
3. Digital – You will be able to access and complete this training remotely.
If you have caring responsibilities, you can speak with your Recruitment Officer about what support we can offer.
How is Police Now unique to other entry routes into policing?
We are a Times Top 100 Graduate Employer and a not-for-profit organisation who offer a unique route into policing, with a focus on building a more representative police service. Our mission is at the heart of everything we do, from our recruitment process, where we assess for cultural awareness and resilience. Right through to our training and development where we deliver training to improve internal culture within the police, and encourage innovative ideas, with a strong focus on problem-solving policing.
Police Now participants have access to a dedicated Performance and Development Coach during the two-year programme. As well as an alumni team afterwards, to support with promotion and progression. These benefits are unique to the Police Now entry route.
What support and training will I receive to prepare for potentially dangerous situations?
During academy, you will receive comprehensive training in keeping yourself and others safe, managing conflict, negotiation, as well as situational awareness to prepare you for the role. This training will be revisited throughout your time in policing and you’ll receive ongoing support from experienced colleagues to ensure you have the skills and resources needed to stay safe.
