Relocation puts off officers from applying for top jobs

THE prospect of relocation and a lack of financial reward are key barriers to eligible candidates applying for available chief officer roles, according to a survey by the College of Policing.

Two in five of the police leaders surveyed said they had seen a suitable role but chosen not to step forward – the main reason for which was potential disruption to their family.

Candidates cited having to look for a new home and a new school for their children or not wishing to live away from family.

The second most common reason were concerns over pension, taxation and lifetime allowances.

Another barrier was a lack of faith in the integrity of the recruitment process. In some cases, police leaders said it felt like it was a “done deal” or it was clear that a preferred candidate had already been chosen.

Other candidates said they were put off by the values of the chief or culture of the recruiting force.

“There are excellent leaders coming through policing and at the top of forces,” said Chief Constable Alex Marshall, chief executive of the College of Policing, which is working on proposals for a national hub for the development and selection of senior police leaders.

“But it’s also clear that in some cases, there have been too few candidates for the most senior positions.

“These surveys, carried out by the College with the assistance of staff associations, give us an evidence base for the first time, to help us understand the barriers to attracting candidates and the options for action.”

Mark Polin, Chair of the Chief Police Officers’ Staff Association, said that improving the situation “requires a collective response with PCCs, staff associations and the College of Policing all playing their part in ensuring that candidates have the information, advice and support that gives them the confidence to step into these complex, challenging but hugely rewarding roles in public service”.

The College’s hub will seek to introduce comprehensive careers guidance at an earlier stage in the development of police leaders and support workforce planning for police leadership.