A Career Like No Other

Off By Ed Hanna

Here, Fraser, a Military Veteran, discusses how transferable skills can be put to good use in police roles.

What did you do before you joined the constabulary?
I was a Military Police Soldier for about four and half years but I always felt somewhat like half a police officer and half a Soldier. I felt that If I was going to do something I should do it properly. I enjoyed my short Army career but without any operational tours, it was quite restricted for my specific role.

What transferable skills did you acquire from your previous role?
My role in the Army certainly gave me skills that have proved useful in my new job, however, I wouldn’t say that it’s all because I was an MP. The Army gives you confidence and develops your communication skills, which are vital to being an effective police officer. There are plenty of other qualities, such as discipline, timekeeping and the ability to just get on with a task that just come as second nature. The law and legislation are taught to you in initial training so you don’t have to have prior knowledge. You just need to show you’ve got the willingness and some aptitude. Your ability to deal with stressful situations and conflict is also vital.

What was the most difficult aspect of making the transition?
I would say the convenience of living on the block with subsidized meals available and easy access to doctor and dental appointments. When you leave the Forces, you suddenly realise getting an appointment through the NHS is a lot harder than just turning up on sick parade!

What advice would you offer anyone considering the move?
Have a plan set out so that you sort somewhere to live and have a stable financial plan, regardless of whether you feel like you want to join the police or not.

There is still that sense of camaraderie, and you know that if you’re in a tight spot your team will help you out and there are a lot of roles you can specialise in once you complete your initial probation, such as, armed response, highway policing, CID, dogs and marine unit and so on. It offers a lot of freedom in your career.

Hampshire Police is looking at putting in several schemes in the coming year to assist Service-leavers in the application process and during the transition. The constabulary holds a Gold Award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme that’s linked with the Armed Forces Covenant and have several Armed Forces champions, including myself as of recently. There’s also the option to join without having to complete the university degree scheme for those that were worried about a high academic workload.