How to Get a Job Within the Police Service of Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is currently going through some positive changes and the police force is leading by example. Now with a recruitment process that aims to hire 50% Catholics and 50% non-Catholics, getting a job within the Northern Ireland police service is becoming possible for everybody.

Instructions

1. Do you qualify to apply? The Northern Ireland police service has certain standards you need to meet, including age, nationality, background and even tattoos.

2. If you meet these requirements you will need to get an application form. You can apply online at their website (see Resources) or email [e-mail] and ask them send you a form.

3. Complete the application and equality monitoring form. Remember to include documents such as passport or a letter from the home office if you need to prove your status in the United Kingdom.

4. Fill in the vetting questionnaire. This will be sent to you once they receive your application and it needs to be filled in and sent off within two weeks, or your application will not be taken any further.

5. Be prepared for a seven month selection process. It includes an application screening, an initial selection test, an assessment and a medical examination.

6. Pass the training. Once you get over the euphoria of being selected you then have to complete and pass six months of training, after which you can move onto specialist training.

Tips & Warnings

• Citizens from other EU countries can apply.

• If you have been convicted of a crime you are likely to be barred from getting a job within the Northern Ireland police service, but if you've only received a caution you could still be considered.

• You may have to provide photographs of tattoos.

• You cannot apply if you are under 18 or over 52 years old.

• The next selection process does not begin again until June 2007.

• The Northern Ireland police service has a two year probationary period.

Resources

• Northern Ireland police