Preparing for the role

Speak to an officer

There are a range of options available to you to learn more about the job of a constable and what it takes to keep our communities safe from harm. These are some suggestions on how to gain a real insight into what life as an officer in Cleveland Police looks like:

• you can approach any officer on patrol on the street;
• you can meet our officers at any of the various community events throughout the region;
• follow the teams on Social Media

Attend local community meetings

Meetings are held in local communities with neighbourhood policing teams. Attend a meeting and speak to the officer about life as an officer in Cleveland Police. Find out about the local issues and how the neighbourhood teams manage these problems.

Look at your local area on the Cleveland Police website for details of any community meetings.

Keep up to date with news

Take a look at the latest updates from our social media channels on Facebook and Twitter as well as on the Cleveland Police website news.

Understand the role of the police and crime commissioner

The Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) is responsible for overseeing the Chief Constable and hold the Chief to account to ensure an efficient and effective police service for the area. For further information about the PCC, visit the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner website.

Be fit for the job

You must be able to cope with the physical demands of the job. You don’t need to be able to run marathons however you do need to be able to maintain a level of health and fitness throughout your career which will be tested at periodic intervals commencing during the pre-employment stage.

If you take regular exercise such as walking, swimming or jogging then you should have no problem with achieving and maintaining the required level of fitness. If you have concerns about your level of fitness you should take steps to start improving this (please check with your doctor before making any big changes to your fitness regime and lifestyle).

Remember that fitness and health are pivotal aspects of a career in the police service. You are therefore required to reflect on your daily habits and routines and aim at constantly improving your overall health and fitness. This is not just an entry requirement, it is a commitment you must maintain throughout your career and one for which you are expected to take full personal responsibility.

Hours of duty

Police Officers work 40 hours per week and shift patterns vary throughout the force area. However, you should be prepared to work shifts (earlies, lates and nights) and will be expected to work weekends and bank holidays. You'll be working long hours - typically 8 or 10 hour shifts.