Jones, Ceri R and Hesketh, Ian and Noble, Stuart (2025) Vocational transition and employment experiences among police leavers : a National Survey Study. Policing: A Journal of Policy and Practice, 19: paaf043.
Full text not available from this repository.Abstract
Police officers leaving the service face significant vocational and psychological transitions that influence their wellbeing and career trajectories. This study investigates the vocational outcomes, identity transition experiences, and support needs among police leavers in England and Wales, using data from a national survey. Findings indicate high rates of re-employment yet reveal considerable discrepancies between initial vocational aspirations and actual employment, with a noteworthy proportion returning to policing roles post-transition. A critical gap was identified in the structured support provided, with respondents reporting minimal or no formal assistance, forcing reliance on informal networks and individual resources. Participants expressed a strong preference for structured support programmes initiated at least 12 months prior to exiting the service. The results highlight an urgent need for evidence-based resettlement interventions aligned with the objectives of the Police Covenant, to ensure no police leaver is disadvantaged as a result of their service.