Joining the police

[caz21]

I'm thinking i would like to join the police, thing is i'm a bit of a titch! i'm 5'5" and size 6-8. My mum reckons i wouldnt be strong enough to handle myself if there was a serious fight etc, especially with men! Although i've seen small police women before! What do you guys think? also I would like any comments, advice etc. on things i may have missed? any advice greatly appreciated!

Oh and How much do police earn?

(My local police are not recruiting for this year, so may be next year!)

[crete]

if you are 5 5 joining the police on height alone would not be a problem i wonder how old you are

[caz21]

I'm 21 Crete!

[crete]

no disrespect i thought you sounded younger if you really want to pursue this career then keep trying , often the police dont accept people at the first application .

[caz21]

You should hear me on the telephone....!!!!

I am going to apply next time they are recruiting!!

[crete]

good for you be positive and good luck and tell mum not to worry

[Ethel]

I suggest you apply at another force that is recruiting this year.

It will be excellent experience of the whole police recruitment process.

[tiggergirlkr]

Crete is correct, the Police do generally tend to turn you down at first application. Why this is I do not know - perhaps to see if you are determined enough to try again?...
There are no height restrictions for the police force any more, and there are many jobs within the police where you would not have to handle yourself in a fight!! Community liason (schools and oaps, etc), or rape crisis centre police. Transport police? There are loads of divisions.
The last time I looked into it (which was a few years ago) I think the starting pay was approx 18,500 in our force (Lancs).
Have you considered becoming a voluntary Special Constable to get some idea of the job first?

[Kaz081992]

Starting pay depends on which force you join, for example in the MET it's around �22k but a few grand less in the County Forces. As well as a paper application you will also need to pass a fitness test. If you get through that then you will go on a full training course which will include self defence techniques. Also, officers have regular officer safety training classes to keep their self defence skills up to date.

[Andy008]

You should be OK as CS gas nowadays means you don't have to be big or scary to be effective.

A serious attitude problem and a Napoleon complex won't go amiss either.

[caz21]

Thanks for all your answers guys! Will look into it! and thanks for the tip Andy! :O)

[rocco d'ollo]

The Police Service realised years ago, thankfully for me, that height, build, colour etc should not be a factor in whether people can join the service or not. Once upon a time, if you were a 6' ex-squaddie you were laughing. Nowadays it's all about communication and interpersonal skills. Are you short and angry with an inability to listen or engage with people? Or are you a good listener with a strong personality but with the life skills and experiences that allows you to deal with stressful, violent and sensitive situations? Batons, CS and firearms are only a last resort.