As a police officer, you’ll be responsible for enforcing law and order, keeping people safe and preventing crime. This job is ideal for anyone who wants to help other people and work in a role with a clear career path. Keep reading to see if a career in the police force is for you.
A role as a police officer typically means you’ll work within communities, carrying out a range of tasks. You’ll be part of a wider police force and will work closely with other key services, such as the other emergency services and the criminal justice system. Work patterns can be irregular and are usually on a shift basis.
Your main responsibility will be to protect the public from criminal activity by maintaining law and order, investigating crime, supporting the community and showing a presence in public spaces. It can of course be a stressful and, at times, dangerous job, however, it can also be highly rewarding, as you contribute to the safety and protection of the public.
Daily tasks will vary but could involve:
The average salary for a police officer (sergeant and below) in the UK is £41,080. Graduates start at around £27,000.
Police officers travel within the geographical area they work in to perform their duties. Overseas travel is uncommon.
Police officers are unable to do any elements of their job from home, other than research or administrative-based tasks, e.g., researching for a case.
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