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Becoming a Police
Constable in Kent
Application process
Next page
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
A message from the Chief Constable
of Kent Police and Kent Police and
Crime Commisioner Ann Barnes
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
Thank you for your interest in joining Kent Police as a Constable. We are pleased to open
police officer recruitment to the public and look forward to welcoming a limited number of
successful candidates into the force during 2014/15.
How does the recruitment
process work?
We are seeking individuals who demonstrate a real passion for keeping Kent a safe place
to live, work and visit and are committed to providing a first class policing service.
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
The role of police officer is unlike any other, and before applying it is important that you
carefully consider if this is the role for you. If successful, you will work at the heart of our
community and play a key part in cutting crime, catching criminals, dealing with anti-social
behaviour as well as supporting community safety.
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Being a police constable is demanding and holds significant responsibilities, however, the
rewards and opportunities for the right candidates are second to none.
Please take some time to read this pack – it contains important information about the role
of a police constable in Kent as well as a guide to the recruitment process.
Good luck with your application.
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Alan Pughsley,
Kent Police Chief Constable
Ann Barnes,
Kent Police and Crime Commisioner
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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2
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
About Kent
The county of Kent has an estimated population of 1.7 million making it the fifth most populous county in England.
Kent Police operates across an area of 1,509 square miles which borders London and the counties of Essex, Surrey and Sussex. The
county is home to one city, four large urban towns and small rural villages linked by a strategic road network including the M25, M2,
M20 and M26.
There are a total of 14 Local Authorities in Kent. The upper tier authorities are: Kent County Council and Medway Unitary Authority.
There are also 12 district/borough councils: Dartford, Gravesham, Swale, Tonbridge and Malling, Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks,
Maidstone, Ashford, Canterbury, Dover, Shepway and Thanet.
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
The Dartford River Crossing,
linking Kent with Essex, is
used by nearly 51 million
vehicles a year, with a daily
average of 139,545.
Bluewater shopping centre
– Europe’s largest retail and
leisure centre catering for
28 million visitors a year.
Approximately 20 million tonnes of freight are carried
through Kent seaports each year, as well as many tonnes form
the two airports.
M2
M25
M26
M20
M2
Appendix B – Qualifications
A2
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Kent has an extensive coastline, including the Port of Dover,
Medway (Sheerness Docks), Folkestone, Ramsgate and London
Thamesport, one of the UK’s largest container terminals and still
the UK’s newest purpose built deep-sea container port.
Kent is also home to Manston and Lydd
airports both
airports,
bothof
ofwhich
whichoperate
operateairlines
flights
to international destinations.
M20
The county has an
extensive rail network with
over 100 stations.
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
Kent is the UK’s ‘Gateway to Europe’ offering easy and
Kentaccess
is also to
home
to Manston
and the
Lydd
airports
boththe
of
fast
the continent
using
Port
of Dover,
which operate
airlines
to international
destinations.
Eurostar
(Ashford
International
and Ebbsfleet
International)
and Le Shuttle (Folkestone).
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3
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
Kent Police Values
Kent Police Mission
‘Provide a first class service protecting
and serving the people of Kent’
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
• We will serve with integrity and
professionalism.
• We will treat everyone with fairness,
respect and dignity.
• We will be innovative, use resources wisely
and operate as one team.
• We will act with humility, compassion
and courtesy.
• We will listen, learn and strive to improve.
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
• We will put the public first and deliver a
service to be proud of.
Vision of the Chief Constable and PCC
‘Our joint vision is for Kent to be a safe place for people to
live, work and visit. By protecting the public from harm, we
will allow our communities to flourish and by working with
the public and partners, we will provide a first class policing
service that is both visible and accessible. We will retain
neighbourhood policing as the bedrock of policing in Kent.
We will be there when the public need us and we will act with
integrity in all that we do.’
Kent Police Priorities
• Cutting crime, catching criminals and
dealing with anti-social behaviour.
• Ensuring visible community policing is at
the heart of Kent’s Policing Model.
• Providing a professional service, putting
victims and witnesses first.
• Protecting the public from serious harm.
• Meeting national commitments for policing.
• Delivering value for money.
• Developing and supporting our workforce.
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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4
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Becoming a PC with Kent Police
What we offer
• a starting salary of £21,210-£22,221 (dependent upon previous experience within
the Police Service) + £2,000 South East allowance
• annual Leave of 22 days per annum increasing with length of service
• police pension
• training and development opportunities
• support and advice from a range of staff associations and access to a range of
services
• access to Health Services via our in-house Occupational Health & Welfare team
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
• membership of Kent Police Recreation Association providing access to a wide
range of benefits and sporting activities
• on-site gym facilities at a number of our stations
• cycle-to-work scheme
• Childcare Vouchers that can be used 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 Level 3 (after probation is complete)
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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5
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Am I eligible to become a Police Officer in Kent Police?
About us
We are seeking individuals who, in addition to the basic eligibility criteria, have a real passion to keep Kent a safe place to live, work and visit.
You will join us in our drive to provide the highest levels of service to the people of the county.
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
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 undertake the full duties of a police officer; dealing with local issues, building public
confidence and helping to keep Kent safe.
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process 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 through 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.
•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.
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
•Have completed and passed the Level 3 Certificate in Knowledge of Policing.
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
•Be a serving member of Kent Police staff and have successfully passed probationary period and has the support of the senior management
team to confirm that they are suitable for consideration to be appointed as a police constable.
Appendix B – Qualifications
•Be a serving Special Constable with Kent Police who has attained independent patrol status at the time of application.
•Be a serving Police Community Support Officer with Kent Police who has successfully completed their probationary period at the time of application.
In addition to the above entry qualification criteria, candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:
•Be a British Citizen or a citizen of a country that is a member of the European Economic Area. See list of EEA countries Appendix A.
•Be aged 18 years.
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
•Possess a full UK manual driving licence with no more than 6 points.
•Have not applied and been unsuccessful at any stage of the selection/assessment process to become a police constable in the last 6 months
for any Police Force. Candidates should be aware that the six month period commences from the date they were notified that they were
unsuccessful irrespective of the stage of the process.
•Not have tattoos or piercings which cause offence, are excessive or deemed unprofessional, Appendix C.
•Not have a criminal record (please see our guidance).
Frequently asked questions
•Not be registered bankrupt or subject to County Court Judgements (CCJs) or Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs).
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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6
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
How does the recruitment process work?
About us
This document has been designed to provide all of the information you will need to
become a police constable with Kent Police. It also outlines the different stages of the
recruitment process and provides key information and dates.
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
The recruitment process is split into four main phases:
•Online Registration and Assessment
•National Police SEARCH Assessment Process (including fitness test)
What we offer
•In-house Senior Interview
•Medical checks, vetting, references and home visit
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
Each of these phases will be explained in more detail throughout this document.
How does the recruitment
process work?
For the initial part of the process all communication with you will be via email. If you
cannot find the answer to any questions within this guide, then you can email our
dedicated recruitment team on [email protected]
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
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.
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Building a diverse workforce
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Kent Police are 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 meet the eligibility
criteria and who are willing to work at any location across the county.
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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7
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What are the steps to becoming a
Police Constable in Kent?
The recruitment process comprises of six main stages. Applicants will need to be
successful at each of these:
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Stage 1 – Online registration and assessment
Stage 2 – Police SEARCH assessment process (including fitness test)
Stage 3 – In-house senior interview
Stage 4 – Checks, references and home visit
Stage 5 – Pre-employment learning
Appendix B – Qualifications
Stage 6 – Joining the Kent Student Officer Programme (KSOP)
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
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.
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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8
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Stage 1 – Online registration and assessment
The online assessment is the very first stage of the recruiting process. Throughout the assessment it is very important that your
responses are open and honest to gain the most benefit from the questions. The assessment is broken down into five different elements;
however the first three of these are completed together at Step 1, during the first week of the process.
Kent Police will open access to each of the steps for a five day period. Access can be made 24 hours per day for the five day period using
the following Internet browsers:
•Internet Explorer 7
•Firefox 3.6
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
•Google Chrome 8
How does the recruitment
process work?
Your browser should also have Javascript and Cookies enabled.
•Safari 5 (Mac and PC)
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
There will be a Help Menu within the assessment to assist you, however if you are unable
to find the answer, then you can email [email protected]
The system is designed to enable you to complete each element of the online process
without timing you out. We recommend that you complete each element in one sitting.
Whilst the online tool remains open you can take the assessment at any time during that
period. If however, you do not allow yourself enough time before the closing deadline,
you will not be able to complete your application.
Please ensure you read this document and refer to the Frequently Asked Questions
before contacting us with any queries. We will be unable to take telephone enquiries
during the early stages of the recruitment process; however we will aim to respond to
you by email within 48 hours.
To complete the online assessment tool you will need to complete each of the 3 steps,
you will be notified and provided access to steps 2 and 3 if you are selected to do so. We
will ensure you are notified accordingly at the appropriate time.
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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9
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Step 1 – Registration, Realistic Job Preview
Questionnaire, & Eligibility Assessment
At the first step you will enter your personal details such as names,
address, driving licence details and National Insurance number.
The Realistic Job Preview will provide details on the role of a police
officer. You will be asked to give your open and honest responses
to different situations. There is no right or wrong answer. At the
end of the questionnaire, you will be given an overall rating of your
suitability for the role of a police officer based on your responses.
You can then make a decision if you would like to continue with
your application.
Step 2 – Behaviour Styles Questionnaire
Step 3 – Situational Judgement Test
On successful completion of Step 2 we will release access to
Step 3, the Situational Judgement Test. This part of the process
requires you to consider the actions a police officer might take
when in different operational situations. You will be asked to
identify the outcomes of the various actions as either effective
or counterproductive. Again, you will need to pass this part of
the process. A link to a feedback report will be provided with
your result and, if you have passed, you will be sent a link to our
e-recruitment system to complete an application form.
On completion of this step the Force will progress a limited number
of top performing candidates to stage 2 of the recruitment process
and we reserve the right to vary the pass mark accordingly.
Candidates who are successful at Step 1 will be invited, by email,
to complete the Behaviour Styles Questionnaire. This step of the
process asks you to indicate to what level you either agree or
disagree with a number of statements. This part of the assessment
is a pass/fail and you will need to pass to progress to Step 3. A link
to a feedback report will be provided with your result.
Due to the anticipated high interest at this step of the process
we will only be able to progress top performing candidates to be
invited to undertake step 3.
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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10
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
Stage 2 – Police SEARCH Process (including fitness test)
Upon successful completion of the Online Registration and Assessment, applicants will move to Stage 2, which is the Police SEARCH
assessment process. There are three steps to Police SEARCH; submit online application, Competency Based Questionnaire (CBQ) marking
and Police SEARCH Assessment Centre.
Police SEARCH is a national process which is owned 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. Kent Police also run mandatory
briefing events for Assessment Centre candidates which provide detailed information about the process in Kent.
Please note each time the process requires you to visit police premises you will be required to provide photographic and other forms of
identification. Failure to do so may mean that you will not be able to participate in the activity/assessment.
Step 1 – Complete and Submit Online Application Form
How does the recruitment
process work?
Police recruitment for this stage will be via our e-Recruitment system, so applicants will
need an internet connection running one of the following browsers:
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
•Internet Explorer 7
•Firefox 3.6
•Google Chrome 8
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
e-Recruitment is generally not accessible on laptops, tablets, iPads, mobiles or Apple products.
Appendix B – Qualifications
Unique links to the e-recruitment system will be sent to all applicants who have been
successful at Stage 1. Applicants will need to register with the e-recruitment system and then
complete their application online. Applications must be fully completed and submitted by the
specified closing date.
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Before completing your application form ensure you read the guidance notes and complete
every section. Incomplete application forms will not be considered for shortlisting. Please
take care with spelling and grammar when completing your application.
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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11
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
When your application form is received you will be sent by post a Candidate Registration
form, which will need to be completed in pencil and returned by post to the Kent 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 is short-listed (Competence Based
Questionnaire marking)
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 Questionnaire (CBQ) sections
of the form.
Kent Police Business Centre 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 assessment centre phase. Some
candidates may be placed on hold at this step in the process should the numbers of
successful candidates exceed the places available at our initial assessment centre.
Step 3 – Attendance at briefing sessions and fitness test
Candidates who are progressed to the assessment centre stage of the selection process will
be invited to attend a briefing session. Kent Police will hold 90 minute briefing sessions, in
Maidstone, to assist with preparation for the Police SEARCH Assessment Centre. Candidates
will also be required to complete the Job Related Fitness test at the briefing event to ensure
that they meet the occupational fitness standards required for the role.
Detailed information will also be provided about the assessment centre and the in-house
senior assessment process which follows.
There will be presentations from the recruitment team and Kent Police Training School
team as well as an opportunity to ask questions.
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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12
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Fitness test
The Assessment Centre consists of the following activities:
All candidates will be subject to the job related fitness test. The test
consists of two elements, endurance fitness and dynamic strength.
•four interactive (role play) exercises
The requirement for the endurance fitness element is to run a
fifteen metre track in time with a series of bleeps (15 metre multistage shuttle run) which become increasingly faster. You will be
required to run to level 3 as a warm up, and then to level 5.4 in
order to reach the standard required. It is advised that you plan a
training schedule to prepare.
•two written exercises
The dynamic strength is designed to test your upper body strength.
You are required to push 34kg and pull 35kg on a Dyno machine.
Step 4 – Police SEARCH Assessment Centre
Kent Police run the Police SEARCH Assessment Centre in-house at
the Kent Police Training School complex in Maidstone.
All candidates will need to attend for assessment during the period
stated. Candidates who require reasonable adjustments should
read the College of Policing guide in the first instance. Reports will
need to be submitted to the Kent Police Business Centre 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.
•a twenty minute competency based interview
•numerical reasoning questionnaire
•verbal logical reasoning test
Full details of the Assessment Centre process and preparation
materials are available on the College of Policing website, under
Police Recruitment Standards. It is recommended that you read all
of these materials before attending the Assessment Centre.
Results will be sent out by the Kent Police Business Centre within
15 working days together with extensive feedback. Top performing
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.
Candidates will be invited to an Assessment Centre to arrive at
either 8am or 1pm on one of the dates specified above. Candidates
will remain in the Assessment Centre for approximately five hours.
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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13
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Stage 3 – In-house Senior Interview
Step 1 – Senior Interview
Senior Interviews will be conducted at the Kent Police Training school in Maidstone and
this will be your opportunity to further demonstrate your suitability to join Kent 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 specified below:
•Decision making
•Professionalism
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
•Working with others
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
•Serving the public
Frequently asked questions
•Openness to change
•Service delivery
Guidance around the format of the interview will be provided to candidates.
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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14
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Stage 4 – Checks references and home visit
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
You will be asked to complete a Medical
Questionnaire which must be signed by
your General Practitioner and returned
confidentially to our Health Services team.
Full details of medical standards can be
found at Appendix D.
All medical questionnaires will be assessed
by our Screening Nurse who may require
further information from your medical
practitioner. Candidates who are declared
‘fit to proceed’ will then be examined by a
medical practitioner appointed on behalf of
Kent Police.
The following areas will be checked:
•Lung capacity
•Eyesight and colour vision test
•Hearing test
•Mobility test
•Consideration of existing conditions
•Urine test
•Height/weight/BMI check
Eyesight test requirements
•Colour vision – The use of colourcorrecting 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.
An eyesight test will be undertaken as part
of the medical. 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).
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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15
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
Step 3 – Home visit
Kent requires a home visit as a final security check. It will be
undertaken by an officer of at least the rank of Inspector (or
police staff senior manager) who will complete a questionnaire
during the visit to:
•Verify identity
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
•Seek clarification on known associates or others residing at the
address
•Ensure candidate has a realistic understanding of the role and
requirements
Step 4 – Biometric Vetting
Samples of your fingerprints and DNA will be taken to carry out
some final vetting checks against various national databases. You
will be required to consent in writing to this process.
Step 5 – References
Kent Police will seek references from each of your previous
employers for the last five years. Any gaps in employment will
need to be explained and verified. If you have not been in
employment for five years, we will ask for a character reference
or an educational reference.
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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16
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Stage 5 – Pre-employment
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Once you are fully cleared to start employment with Kent as a Police Constable, you will be
sent joining instructions via email along with some pre-read information which will assist
you during your first weeks of training.
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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17
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Stage 6 – Joining the Kent Student
Officer Programme (KSOP)
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
On your first day you’ll join on an intake with other officers and your first 20 weeks of
training whilst you are on the Kent Student Officer Programme will be based at our Kent
Police Training School in Maidstone.
Appendix B – Qualifications
During this 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
training school environment. All student officers will study towards the Diploma in Policing
which is a nationally recognised qualification.
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Having completed the initial learning phase you will then be tutored by an experienced
officer on a Local Policing Division. 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 all elements of your training period. You will be required to successfully
complete a two year probationary period for this role.
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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18
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Appendix A – 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 Foreign Nationals 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
•France
•Latvia
•Poland
•Belgium
•Germany
•Liechtenstein
•Portugal
•Cyprus
•Greece
•Lithuania
•Slovakia
•Czech Republic
•Hungary
•Luxembourg
•Slovenia
•Denmark
•Iceland
•Malta
•Spain
•Estonia
•Ireland
•Netherlands
•Sweden
•Finland
•Italy
•Norway
•United Kingdom
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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19
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
Appendix B – Qualifications examples for England,
Wales and Northern Ireland
You must have achieved a qualification equivalent to A-level. 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 some research (via NARIC National
Academic Recognition Information Centre or independently) which will determine if it is equivalent and submit to
[email protected]
Qualifications
A Level and additional entry criteria
General Certificate of Education Advanced Level – GCE A Level
How does the recruitment
process work?
Special Constable with Independent Patrol
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Have previously served in the military or armed forces, or similar law enforcement agency, and successfully completed
the minimum term of service and achieved an exemplary reference on discharge
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Be a serving member of Kent Police staff and have successfully passed probationary period and has the support of the
senior management team to confirm that they are suitable for consideration to be appointed as a police constable
Appendix B – Qualifications
Advanced qualifications
PCSO who has successfully passed their probationary period
Completed and passed the Level 3 Certificate in Knowledge of Policing
Advanced Vocational Certificate of Education (AVCE) Double Award
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Advanced diploma (Level 3)
BTEC Extended Diploma
BTEC Higher National Certificate/Diploma
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
BTEC National Certificate/Diploma (Pre 2002)
BTEC National Certificate (Post 2002)
BTEC National Diploma (Post 2002)
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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20
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Qualifications continued
About us
Certificate/Access to Higher Education
Certificate of Higher Education
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
Access to Higher Education (Pre Sept 2009)
Access to Higher Education (Sept 2009 onwards)
City & Guilds Level 3
What we offer
GNVQ & NVQ qualifications
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
National Vocational Qualification (NVQ)
General National Vocational Qualification (GNVQ) Advanced
General National Vocational Qualification (GNVQ) 4
General National Vocational Qualification (GNVQ) 5
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Scottish qualifications
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Scottish Advanced Higher
Scottish Certificate of Higher Education – SCE HG
Scottish Certificate of Sixth Year Studies – CSYS
University qualifications
Appendix B – Qualifications
Open University (OU) 120 credits
Foundation Degree – FD
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
University Credits (Years 1 & 2)
Batchelor Degree (completed)
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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21
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Qualifications continued
About us
Misc qualifications
ACCA Certified Accounting Technician
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
Certified Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) Stage 4
Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) Diploma in Insurance
Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) Financial Planning Certificate
What we offer
Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) Advanced Certificate in Marketing
Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development (CIPD)
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
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
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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22
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Qualifications continued
About us
Non-UK qualifications
International Baccalaureate (IB)
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
European Baccalaureate
Batchelor of Commerce Part 2 (University of Punjab)
Eire Leaving Certificate (Higher Level)
What we offer
Irish Management Institute (IMI) Certificate
Titulo Professional (Peru)
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
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)
Candidates should gain validation of non UK qualifications from NARIC.
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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23
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Appendix C – Tattoos and piercings
Tattoos
Any applicants with tattoos which could be construed as being offensive to any religion
or belief, is in any way discriminatory, violent, intimidating, excessive or unprofessional
in nature, will not be accepted to join Kent Police. Applicants with tattoos on their arms,
collar and on the hands which fall outside of the above category will be assessed on an
individual basis.
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
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.
How does the recruitment
process work?
You will be required to supply two digital photographs of each visible tattoo:
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
2. A close up photograph to clearly identify the images.
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
1. A distance photograph to clearly identify where on the body the tattoo is.
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.
Body piercings
Candidates with body piercings or other body modifications may be considered eligible for
appointment if the force considers that the individual case does not breach the Standard of
Professional Behaviour for serving police officers or constitute a risk to the health and safety
of the officers.
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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24
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Appendix D – Recommended medical standards
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Ear, nose and throat disorders
Miscellaneous condition
Cardiovascular system
Conditions affecting mental and psychiatric
health
Respiratory system
Alimentary system
Nephro-urogenital system
Endocrine system
Skin conditions
Appendix B – Qualifications
Orthopaedic and soft tissue conditions
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Haematological disorders
Infectious disease
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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25
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Ear, nose and throat disorders
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
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 external
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
- Mild, occasional otitis external
Likely to be suitable
- More severe, recurrent otitis external
Likely to require further information, investigation and Impedes function, balance and use of
assessment
communications equipment
Atresia or stenosis of ear canal
Likely to require further information, investigation and
assessment – unless excluded on audiometric criteria
How does the recruitment
process work?
Tympanic membrane and middle ear
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
- Healed
Likely to be suitable
- Chronic
Likely to require further information, investigation and
assessment
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Ventilation tubes (grommets)
Likely to require further information, investigation and
assessment
Successful myringoplasty/tympanoplasty
Likely to be suitable
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Perforation
Chronic otitis media
- Healed
Likely to be suitable
- Inactive
Likely to require further information, investigation and
assessment
- Active
Likely to require further information, investigation and
assessment
Chronic serous otitis media
Likely to require further information, investigation and
assessment
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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26
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Ear, nose and throat disorders continued
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
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
Inner ear
Meniere’s disease
Unlikely to be suitable
What we offer
Benign positional paroxysmal vertigo
Likely to require further information, investigation and
assessment
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
Hearing
Hearing standard – Hearing loss of
more than a total of 84 dB over the
Likely to be suitable
0.5-1.2 KHz range or more than a
Unlikely to be suitable
total of 123 dB over the 3,4 and 6
Likely to require further information, investigation and KHz range.
assessment – applicant must be assessed carefully
For borderline cases or when hearing
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
»» Both ears above standard
»» 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
in one ear is above the standard
Likely to require further information, investigation and and hearing in the other ear below
standard, or when hearing aids are
assessment
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
Likely to be suitable
Recurrent nasal polyps
Likely to be suitable but If there is a significant
history then likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment
Persistent chronic sinusitis
Likely to be suitable but If severe, likely to require
further information, investigation and assessment
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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27
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Ear, nose and throat disorders continued
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
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 external
What we offer
- Mild, occasional otitis external
Likely to be suitable
- More severe, recurrent otitis external
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment
Atresia or stenosis of ear canal
How does the recruitment
process work?
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment – unless excluded
on audiometric criteria
Tympanic membrane and middle ear
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Impedes function, balance and use of
communications equipment.
Perforation
»» Healed
Likely to be suitable
»» Chronic
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment
Ventilation tubes (grommets)
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment
Successful myringoplasty/tympanoplasty
Likely to be suitable
Chronic otitis media
»» Healed
Likely to be suitable
»» Inactive
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment
»» Active
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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28
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Ear, nose and throat disorders continued
About us
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.
Police applicant
Notes
Tracheostomy
Unlikely to be suitable.
Not compatible with safety near or in
water.
Chronic laryngitis
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
Other laryngeal disease
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
How does the recruitment
process work?
Severe speech impediment
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment but unlikely to be suitable if the
applicant cannot communicate effectively.
Unable effectively to perform vital task of
radio and voice communication.
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Balance disorders and vertigo
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
Usually a symptom of another condition
that may make the applicant unsuitable.
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
Illness/injury/disease
Throat
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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29
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Cardiovascular system
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
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.
Illness/injury/disease
Police applicant
Notes
High risk of the operational role
precipitating symptoms (chest pain) or a
coronary event.
Coronary artery disease
»» Symptomatic
Unlikely to be suitable.
What we offer
»» Asymptomatic
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
Congenital heart disease
»» Corrected
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
How does the recruitment
process work?
»» Uncorrected
Unlikely to be suitable.
Cardiac murmurs
Benign – likely to be suitable, else likely to require Requirement to meet normal
further information, investigation and assessment. 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.
Balance disorders and vertigo
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
Usually a symptom of another condition
that may make the applicant unsuitable.
Appendix B – Qualifications
Disturbance of rhythm
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
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.
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Reassess after corrective surgery, unlikely
to be suitable if loss of cardiovascular
function.
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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30
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Cardiovascular system continued
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
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.
Illness/injury/disease
Police applicant
Notes
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.
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
Hypertension with end organ damage or Unlikely to be suitable.
unacceptable side-effects of treatment
Likely to be suitable.
Subject to (annual) medical examination.
»» Symptomatic
Unlikely to be suitable.
»» Asymptomatic
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
Condition is not compatible with exercise
requirements of operational Police
Constable.
Raynaud’s phenomenon
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
Appendix B – Qualifications
Cold may trigger painful attacks. May
affect dexterity of hands in operating
equipment.
Varicose veins
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Severe varicose veins
Likely to be unsuitable if symptomatic or
sufficiently severe to restrict capacity to perform
operational duties.
Condition will inevitably deteriorate
substantially with prolonged standing
and sitting.
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Controlled hypertension with no sideeffects of medication
Established peripheral vascular disease
affecting the lower limbs
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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31
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Respiratory system
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
Conditions adversely affecting respiratory fitness will limit working ability most commonly from the sensation of breathlessness.
Illness/injury/disease
Police applicant
Notes
Any persistent respiratory disease
impairing exercise capacity
Unlikely to be suitable.
Assessment should be made on a case
by case basis.
Asthma
Unlikely to be suitable.
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
Treated hay fever without history of
wheezing
Likely to be suitable.
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
»» History of a previous episode of TB
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment
Successfully treated Tuberculosis
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
Sarcoid
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
Unacceptable risk of transmission during
training period.
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
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32
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Alimentary system
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
Illness/injury/disease
Police applicant
Notes
Peptic ulceration or dyspepsia
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
Chronic pain may interfere with role.
Irritable bowel syndrome
Likely to be suitable.
»» Mild
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
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.
Many sufferers will have minimal
symptoms with good dietary control and
will be suitable.
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
Dietary conditions
How does the recruitment
process work?
»» Coeliac disease
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
»» Lactose intolerance
Likely to be suitable.
»» Food allergy
Likely to be suitable.
Hernia
Likely to be suitable assuming >3 months after
successful surgical treatment.
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Untreated hernia refer to GP/defer till after
surgery.
Appendix B – Qualifications
Anal and perianal conditions
Likely to be suitable
Active chronic conditions
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
Chronic liver disease
Unlikely to be suitable.
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Training and operational role will be
compromised due to local weakness in
abdominal musculature. Hernia is likely
to increase in severity.
Persistent perianal sepsis will cause
significant absence.
Biliary disease
»» Gallstone disease
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
»» Chronic biliary tree
Unlikely to be suitable.
Frequently asked questions
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33
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Alimentary system continued
About us
Illness/injury/disease
Police applicant
Notes
Pancreatitis
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
»» Single episode
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment
»» Chronic
Unlikely to be suitable
Stoma with good nutritional state and
no complications
Likely to be suitable
Consider need for provision of special
padding on uniform belts
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
Previous page
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34
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Nephro-urogenital system
About us
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.
Illness/injury/disease
Police applicant
Notes
Haematuria/ Proteinurea
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
GP to investigate in the first instance
What we offer
Nephritis
History of nephritis and ongoing impairment
unlikely to be suitable. Otherwise likely to require
further information, investigation and assessment.
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
Recurrent urinary tract infections
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
Persistent major urethral abnormality
Unlikely to be suitable.
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
Likely to be suitable.
Polycystic kidney disease
Unlikely to be suitable.
Unilateral kidney (with remaining kidney
functioning well)
Likely to be suitable
Established renal stone disease
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Treatment is likely to be protracted.
Reassess after treatment aimed at
preventing further recurrences.
Normal renal function necessary to allow
regular attendance and performance.
Progression to end stage renal failure.
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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35
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Nephro-urogenital system continued
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
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.
Illness/injury/disease
Police applicant
Notes
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.
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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36
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Endocrine system
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
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.
Illness/injury/disease
Police applicant
Notes
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.
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
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.
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
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.
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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37
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Skin conditions
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
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.
Illness/injury/disease
Police applicant
Notes
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.
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
Previous page
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38
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Orthopaedic and soft tissue conditions
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
Dexterity, mobility and good spinal function are essential physical requirements for an individual to undertake the role of an operational
police constable.
Illness/injury/disease
Police applicant
General
What we offer
Any previous injury (fracture, soft tissue Likely to require further information,
injury) or congenital deformity, causing
investigation and assessment.
long term reduction in function of a joint
or limb.
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
Implants
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Notes
Major joint replacement (total hip or
knee).
Unlikely to be suitable.
Assess on case by case basis.
Likely to be suitable.
Internally fixed fractures (‘metal work’).
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Risk of re-fracture at site of metal work
when returning to more energetic activities.
Endoprosthetic replacements.
Unlikely to be suitable.
Used in osteosarcoma surgery.
Unacceptable risk of prosthesis failure or
fracture around prosthesis.
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Unacceptable risk to the prosthesis from
exercise requirements. Severe implications
of prosthetic failure in an active adult.
Knee disorder
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Medial meniscectomy.
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Lateral meniscectomy.
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Risk of early osteoarthritis with associated
disability.
Ligamentous injury requiring surgery or
causing instability.
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Risk of re-injury in operational role.
Osteochondritis dissecans.
Unlikely to be suitable.
Risk of severe knee joint damage.
Assess on case by case basis.
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
Previous page
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39
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Orthopaedic and soft tissue conditions continued
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
Dexterity, mobility and good spinal function are essential physical requirements for an individual to undertake the role of an operational
police constable.
Illness/injury/disease
Police applicant
Notes
Foot
Foot disorders.
What we offer
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Amputations
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
Amputations (total or partial) of upper
or lower limb.
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Dislocation and instability of major joints
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Single episode of dislocation with no
recurrence.
Likely to be suitable.
Recurrent dislocation or surgical
treatment required.
Unlikely to be suitable – rarely, if excellent surgical Risk of recurrent dislocation whilst engaged
results from stabilisation further information,
in operational activities (e.g. restraining).
investigation and assessment could be sought.
Cervical spine
Resolved whiplash.
Likely to be suitable.
May be exacerbated by physical activities
and driving.
Cervical discectomy (+/- fusion).
Unlikely to be suitable.
Cervical discectomy will often not improve
neck pain. Also there may be persisting
neurological disability in the upper limbs.
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
Previous page
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40
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Orthopaedic and soft tissue conditions continued
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Dexterity, mobility and good spinal function are essential physical requirements for an individual to undertake the role of an operational
police constable.
Illness/injury/disease
Police applicant
Lumbar spine
Single level resolved lumbar disc disease Likely to require further information,
+/- discectomy.
investigation and assessment.
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
Multiple level lumbar disease.
Unlikely to be suitable.
How does the recruitment
process work?
Recurrent low back pain/persistent
sciatica.
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Arthritis and related conditions
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Notes
Rheumatoid arthritis.
Unlikely to be suitable.
Controlled gout without complications.
Likely to be suitable.
Ankylosing Spondylitis with chronic pain. Unlikely to be suitable.
Mild Ankylosing Spondylitis with
preserved function.
Likely to require further information, investigation
and assessment.
Reiter’s Diseases/reactive arthropathy.
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Connective tissue diseases.
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Low back pain +/- lower limb symptoms
can be disabling. Exacerbated by driving,
standing for long periods, other physical
tasks.
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.
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
Previous page
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41
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Haematological disorders
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Illness/injury/disease
Police applicant
Notes
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.
»» Symptomatic.
Unlikely to be suitable.
Physical tasks and risk of injury may
precipitate haemorrhage.
»» Asymptomatic.
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
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.
Mild haemophilia.
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
Previous page
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42
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Infectious disease
About us
Illness/injury/disease
Police applicant
Notes
Assessment should be made on a case by
case basis.
HIV infection.
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
»» Symptomatic.
Unlikely to be suitable.
»» Asymptomatic.
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
What we offer
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.
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
Previous page
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43
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Miscellaneous conditions
About us
Illness/injury/disease
Police applicant
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.
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.
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Incapacitating menorrhagia.
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Incapacitating dysmenorrhoea.
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Endometriosis.
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Appendix B – Qualifications
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.
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Notes
BMI should only be used to screen
individuals.
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
Previous page
Next page
44
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Miscellaneous conditions
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
Illness/injury/disease
Police applicant
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.
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
Notes
BMI should only be used to screen
individuals.
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
Previous page
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45
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Neurological disorders
About us
Illness/injury/disease
Police applicant
Notes
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 months1.
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.
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
Headaches/severe headaches.
Likely to be suitable.
Head Injuries.
How does the recruitment
process work?
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Subarachnoid haemorrhage
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Transient Ishaemic Attacks.
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Hydrocephalus/insertion of shunts.
Unlikely to be suitable.
Multiple sclerosis.
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Motor neurone disease, cerebella
ataxias, progressive peripheral
neuropathy and Parkinson’s disease.
Unlikely to be suitable.
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
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.
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.
1
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
Previous page
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46
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
Conditions affecting mental and psychiatric health
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
Recommended mental and psychiatric health standards.
Illness/injury/disease
Police applicant
Notes
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.
Assessment should be made on a case by
case basis.
Schizophrenia/Schizophreniform
disorder/Schizoaffective disorder/
Delusional disorder.
May not be suitable but further information,
investigation, assessment required.
Assessment should be made on a case by
case basis.
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.
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Somatoform disorders/Factitious
disorders/Dissociative disorders/Chronic
Fatigue Syndrome.
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Eating disorders.
Likely to require further information,
investigation and assessment.
Personality disorders.
Unlikely to be suitable.
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Assessment should be made on a case by
case basis.
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
Previous page
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47
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
How does the recruitment
process work?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
Frequently asked questions
How do I contact Kent Police about my application?
Everything you need to know about the recruitment process is
contained within this guide. 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 have not received an email confirming if I have
passed or failed?
At the end of each element of the online process you will receive
an email from the Apollo system. If you have not received an email
you should check your junk mail/filter settings in case the email/s
get filtered by your spam software.
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.
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 Kent Police area.
How fit do I have to be to become a police officer?
How long is the probationary period?
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.
The probationary period for a police officer is two years.
I have been travelling/living abroad for more than six
months. Will this affect my application?
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 and bank holidays and weekend
shifts. Operational demands may require your rostered shift/rest
days to be cancelled and re-scheduled at short notice.
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.
What hours will I work?
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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48
Protecting and serving the people of Kent
Introduction
About us
Mission, Vision, Values
and Priorities
What we offer
Frequently asked questions continued
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 and any application considered taken into account
organisational need.
Can I specialise?
Am I eligible to become a
police officer in Kent?
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 does the recruitment
process work?
How much is the salary?
What are the steps to
become a police officer
in Kent?
Appendix A – Residency
in European Economic Area
Appendix B – Qualifications
Appendix C – Tattoos
and piercings
Appendix D – Recommended
medical standards
The current starting salary is £21,210 (Point 0) rising to £22,221
(Point 1) after 36 weeks initial training at which point you will
have obtained independent patrol status. Student officers with
independent patrol status as either a Special Constable or PCSO
will 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.
Frequently asked questions
Becoming a Police Constable in Kent – Application process
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