Armed Forces Covenant

Suffolk Constabulary has signed the Armed Forces Covenant. This a promise that together we acknowledge and understand that those who serve or have served in the armed forces, and their families, should be treated with fairness and respect.

It is centred around two principles which recognise the unique obligations and sacrifices made by the armed forces:

• Those who serve in the armed forces, whether regular or reserve, those who have served in the past, and their families, should face no disadvantage compared to other citizens in the provision of public and commercial services.
• Special consideration is appropriate in some cases, especially for those who have given most such as the injured and the bereaved.

HM Forces and policing both attract public spirited and selfless individuals, who in different fields, share bonds of service to the community and the Crown. The heart of the covenant is about understanding the obligations and sacrifices made by those who serve. It is fitting to develop that understanding through our relationship with the community.

The presence in Suffolk of the Royal Engineers at Rock Barracks, Woodbridge, the Army Air Corps at JHC Flying Station, Wattisham, and the Army Reservist Centres in Ipswich and Bury St Edmunds, as well as a large contingent of veterans and their families means that Suffolk has strong ties to the military, and we are a proud employer of many ex-service personnel and their families.

Suffolk Constabulary proudly welcomes applications from individuals with a military background.  We recognise and value the unique skills, experience, and perspectives gained through the military service, and how these can positively contribute to a career in policing. As part of our commitment under the Armed Forces Covenant, we guarantee an interview to eligible applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role they are applying for. Please note that while the scheme ensures an interview, it does not guarantee a job offer. All appointments will be made based on merit through a fair and competitive selection process.

For new police officer applications, to meet eligibility for an interview all candidates must pass a PNC Check, and the College of Policing assessments (these are national checks and assessments prior to interview stage) Full eligibility criteria for each entry route is listed on the website here PCDA Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship | Suffolk Constabulary and here: PCEP Police Constable Entry Programme | Suffolk Constabulary

We work hard to support those within reservist and cadet instructor roles with specific extended annual leave policies designed to allow them to meet their annual training requirement.

The force currently holds the Silver Award in recognition of its support for the armed forces community and for its alignment with the values of the Armed Forces Covenant.

Military to Constabulary Webinar

23 September 2026 - Sign up here.