Police Constable Entry Programme - Detective Constable (PCEP DC) October

This is a 2-year Police Constable Entry Programme – Detective Constable (PCEP DC) route for individuals aspiring to become Detective Constables.

Salary

• Starting Salary: £32,256 per annum
• Increases to a minimum of £34,971 after 2 years.
• Increases to £52,014 after 6 years if you remain in the Police Constable rank, subject to performance.

Working Pattern

• Shift work – 24-hour shift patterns, including nights, weekends, and Bank Holidays.

About the Role

This route focuses on investigations, evidence gathering, and problem-solving for complex crimes. You will protect vulnerable people and investigate serious crime across West Yorkshire, playing a vital role in bringing offenders to justice.

Key Duties

• Investigate a range of crimes, progressing to more serious and complex cases.
• Utilise investigative tools and techniques in community and office settings.
• Gather and develop intelligence to support investigations.
• Interview victims, witnesses, and suspects using approved methods (PACE).
• Manage and present evidence in line with legal and procedural requirements.
• Prepare high-quality case files for supervisors, CPS, and court processes.
• Attend scenes, secure evidence, and safeguard those involved.
• Support investigations by tracing suspects, conducting searches, and taking statements.
• Collaborate with uniformed teams, CID, partners, and complete required training and portfolio work.
• Build positive relationships with colleagues and communities.
• Make critical decisions that can have a lasting impact.

Training and Development

• Complete 17 weeks of initial training at West Yorkshire Police training facilities in Wakefield.
• Join an investigation team within Safeguarding, Criminal Investigation, or District Investigations across Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds, or Wakefield.
• Undertake 10 weeks of mentorship on a uniform team at District before moving to a specialist investigation team.
• Upon successful completion of the two-year training period, begin the intensive Trainee Investigator Development Programme.
• This programme focuses on building essential investigative skills, developing a portfolio of evidence, and completing the National Investigator Exam, leading to accreditation as a Detective Constable.

Essential Criteria

• Be at least 17 years of age, 18 at the time of appointment.
• Be a British Citizen, or an EU/EEA national, Commonwealth citizen, or foreign national with Indefinite Leave to Remain or Settled Status with no restrictions on stay.
• Be a UK resident for the last three years.
• Hold a full manual or automatic UK driving licence.
• Pass the vetting process.
• Be ready, willing, and able to pass the job-related fitness test.
• Be in good health and pass a medical examination.
• Pass a drugs test.
• Hold a Level 2 / GCSE (A*-C or 9-4) or equivalent qualification in English Language and Maths.
• Possess a Level 3 qualification or equivalent (e.g., 2 x A/AS Levels Grade A to E, GNVQ/NVQ Level 3, BTEC Level 3).
• Confirmed results are required; predicted grades are not accepted.
• Consideration will be given to applicants who do not hold a Level 3 qualification but can demonstrate relevant experience as detailed in Police Regulations 2003, Regulation 10, Annex BA (e.g., serving Special Constable or PCSO with independent patrol status).

How to Apply

• Courses are anticipated to start mid-2027.
• You must meet all essential criteria and commit to an extensive and intensive training programme.
• The recruitment process is demanding; timely responses and attendance at appointments are crucial.
• You may only apply for one entry route (PCEP DC or PCEP PC Uniformed Constable).
• West Yorkshire Police cannot support applicants switching between entry routes.

Closing Date

• Sunday 25 October 2026 at 23:55 hours. This date may change depending on the number of applications received.