Eligibility
Qualifications / Experience
In addition to being able to demonstrate a good standard of maths and English (written and spoken), candidates must meet at least one of the following criteria at the point of application:
- 2 x Level 3 qualification passes
- A combination of Level 3 qualification equivalent to 2 A-levels (Or Higher)
- A qualification from outside England and Wales which the UK National Recognition Information Centre (NARIC) recognises as a Level 3 qualification equal to 2 A-Levels.
- Have completed and passed the Level 3 certificate in Knowledge of Policing or Police Law and Community Certificate.
- Have previously served in the military or armed forces, or similar law enforcement agency, and successfully completed the minimum term of service and have an exemplary reference (previous service in military or armed forces is a minimum of 2 years within the last 5 years).
- Have previously served in another emergency service (this includes ‘special’, PCSO or other operational role in Hampshire & IOW or another police force) and have an exemplary reference. (Previous service in an emergency service is a minimum of 2 years within the last 5 years and have worked in an operational role).
- Have at least 2 years recent experience in digital forensics-discovery and cybercrime investigations and a relevant qualification/training.
Driving licence
A full manual or automatic driving licence is required upon application as a Police Officer. If you do not hold a full driving licence, you may want to consider applying as a Special Constable as a driving licence is not required for that role.
Residency
You need to have lived in the UK for the last 3 years prior to applying, in order that we can carry out vetting checks on you. (If the role requires Management Vetting you will have needed to have lived in the UK for 5 years prior to applying).
Tattoos and piercings
The appearance of police officers, staff, apprentices, special constables and volunteers should be in keeping with our Standards of Professional Behaviour and Uniform and Dress Standards.
The nature, location, prominence and appearance of tattoos and/or piercings will be carefully considered in relation to the impression they may give to members of the public or colleagues.
Tattoos
- HIOWC does not generally allow any tattoos on the face, scalp or above the collar. Tattoos on the hands will also be given careful consideration. Tattoos which could reasonably be interpreted as discriminatory or offensive and/or indicate attitudes or views inconsistent with the Code of Ethics and/or the Standards of Professional Behaviour are also unacceptable.
- Tattoos which are considered unacceptable include those which are rude, lewd, crude, racist, sexist, sectarian, homophobic, intimidating or violent, whether the tattoo(s) is visible or not.
- As we don’t allow tattoos which are intimidating or violent this means that tattoos incorporating guns, bladed instruments and/or other weapons are not acceptable. Exceptions to this may include tattoos which are linked to religions, the armed forces or other public services.
- When deciding if a tattoo is acceptable, we’ll consider them on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the size, nature, context and prominence of it. We may also seek further information on the meaning of tattoos where this isn’t clear, e.g. a symbol or insignia.
- Applicants with tattoos are required to submit photographs of any existing tattoos as part of the recruitment process.
Piercings
- Public Facing Roles – officers / staff are permitted to wear one pair of small stud earrings. Other jewellery may be worn with permission, on a case by case basis.
- Non-Public Facing Roles – non uniformed officers and staff may wear jewellery, providing there is no health and safety risk, and the professional image of the force is maintained.
- Ear stretchers – are not permitted and must be taken out at all times whilst at work. Individuals in a public facing role must take suitable steps to ensure the holes are covered to prevent injury.
Age
Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the time of applying. Unfortunately, we’re unable to progress applications from anyone under 18.
BMI
To meet the national medical standards for policing roles, all applicants must fall within the required body mass index (BMI) range; 18.5 – 30. Click here to read more about BMI requirements.
Pre-Employment Vetting
Before joining as a Police Officer, all applicants must pass pre‑employment vetting. This helps us ensure that everyone who joins the organisation is suitable, trustworthy, and able to meet the high standards expected in policing.
Why we carry out Vetting
- To make sure officers are honest, reliable, and suitable for the role.
- To maintain public confidence by upholding high standards of behaviour.
- To identify any risks or vulnerabilities, such as financial issues, alcohol or substance misuse, gambling, or concerning associations.
- To ensure individuals can safely access sensitive information and police systems.
- To meet national policing vetting requirements and protect the organisation and public.
Examples of why someone may fail vetting
- Criminal convictions and/or Cautions, or non-declaration or dishonesty about past offences.
- Close or ongoing associations with individuals involved in criminal activity
- Significant or unmanaged financial problems (e.g. CCJs, accounts in default or high levels of debt)
- Concerns around integrity, including past misconduct or behaviour that conflicts with policing values
- Inappropriate or concerning social media activity (e.g. discriminatory or extremist content).
- Providing incomplete or inaccurate information during the vetting process.
- Issues raised during background or employment checks.
- Not meeting residency or nationality requirements set by national vetting standards.
