Application stages

To apply, please complete our online application form.

Our application procedure is designed to find out how you measure up to the challenge of being a Communications Operator. So naturally, it’s fairly challenging in itself and can take up to 8 weeks to complete.

To apply, you need to be a British citizen or a member of the EC/EEA. Commonwealth citizens and foreign nationals who are resident in the UK free of restrictions can also apply.

As part of the vetting process, you’ll undergo a medical examination in our Occupational Health Department and you must have the required standard of health. This will include checks on your hearing and eyesight.

You do not need any formal qualifications. Our Communications Operators come from all sorts of backgrounds – some are straight from university, whilst others have gained valuable life experience from other previous careers. What they all have in common is a commitment to the force and their ability to communicate, especially with the public. Our application process exists to give you an opportunity to demonstrate these kinds of skills, and show us what you could bring to the organisation.

Stages of Assessment

The assessment process is made up of several sections:

1. Papersift of application form

Firstly, we’ll check through your application to ensure that you meet the basic age and nationality requirements, and that you have no criminal convictions that may render you ineligible. We’ll also assess your answers to the competency-based questions to determine whether they meet our required standard. It’s important that you answer the questions carefully and as fully as you can, as your application could be rejected if insufficient detail and evidence is provided.

2. Assessment day (including verbal tests, role plays and an interview)

If you meet the criteria, the next stage is to attend an assessment day. This will consist of verbal tests, interactive role-play exercises and a formal, structured interview. Together, these exercises will test your communication skills and ability to think on your feet and make quick decisions based on sound judgement.