Want to leave the police force

[superscott]

Hi all,

My wife has been in the force for 8 years and guessing that this is not unusual subject that many want to leave the police, right now.

My opinion is to stay as it doesn't seem as bad as what she makes out, but then I don't deal with all the day to day politics.
Wife is currently in public protection mainly looking after children issues and I dont ask the details, because it isnt nice.

I know that there are many transferable skills etc.... any ideas?

Cheers.

[War Pig]

Council job in CYP?

[Chicken Chaser]

Scott, it'll be harder for you to quantify what your wife is trying to escape as from someone outside looking in, it can all look rosy with job security, a pension (although this could yet go very wrong), promotion prospects (if you can find anyone offering it) and the 'exciting' day to day work of the average PC. Your wife is in a specialist role which carries its own stresses. Personally, its not a job I'd want as I'd take it home too much with me however, if she feels that strongly about leaving, then I think its best that she takes her time to explore her options. I think there are a few of us weighing up what we do from here, as I feel i'm beginning to stagnate without any real prospects in the short or medium term. Its finding what I'm good at, what I want to do and whether employers are willing to take a punt on an ex-cop which is the hardest part.

Your missus needs to do the same - think about what she wants from her next career, which are her particular strengths and then if she has a clear vision, approach employers who specialise in those roles. I know i've spoken to people in companies in the past when throwing ideas around. The stumbling block I found was having to gain further education without any prospect of a job at the end of it. Its a big gamble, and especially when you have financial commitments to fulfil, but I'm sure she, like me doesn't want to get sucked into a pension trap and become that cynical character who still has too many years to count down. Life isnt a trial run.