Make a difference when it matters most
Are you ready for a career where every second counts and every call could change a life?
Do you have the resilience to handle situations that most people never encounter?
If so, we want to hear from you.
No two calls are ever the same.
One moment, you could be speaking to a frightened caller whispering that someone is trying to break into their home — you’ll need to stay calm, gather vital information quickly, and keep them reassured while officers are on the way.
The next, you might be handling a distressed parent reporting a missing child, where every minute matters and your ability to ask the right questions could be critical to a safe outcome.
Moments later, you could be coordinating with partner agencies during a fast-moving incident, making rapid decisions to ensure the right resources are deployed without delay.
In every scenario, you are the calm voice in the chaos — providing reassurance, taking control, and making a real difference when it matters most
Join us as a Police Emergency Call Handler—a vital role at the heart of our Contact Management team and the first step in delivering an emergency response when the public needs us most.
If you want a role that truly makes a difference, this is your opportunity.
About the Role
As a Police Emergency Call Handler, you’ll be the first point of contact for members of the public and partner agencies. You’ll handle both emergency (999) and non-emergency (101) calls, assess risk, and ensure incidents are managed in line with force policies and procedures.
This advert is to build a pool of successful candidates who will be offered roles as vacancies arise. Upcoming training courses are scheduled to begin in mid September, with further intakes planned early in 2027. Please note these dates are subject to change based on operational needs.
You must be willing and able to work a rotating shift pattern which has rotating shifts generally of two days, two afternoons, two nights followed by four rest days. There are weekly variations in the pattern which is attached for reference. This pattern will cover 24/7, 365 days of the year, including weekends and nights. A shift and weekend working allowance will be paid.
Training & Development
- Initial Training: 7 weeks classroom-based at Mansfield Police Station (Mon–Fri).
- Live Call Training: 6 weeks of supervised shifts at Force HQ.
- Progression: Opportunities to develop into the role of Police Dispatcher upon successful completion of your probation.
You must be available for the full 13-week training period.
Key Skills & Experience
We’re looking for individuals who:
- Communicate clearly and empathetically, even under pressure.
- Make sound decisions using their own initiative.
- Work effectively as part of a team.
- Can manage stress and remain calm in challenging situations.
- Are comfortable using computer systems and handling multiple tasks simultaneously.
Application Process
To apply, please provide three examples (up to 500 words each) demonstrating your experience in:
- Communication Skills
- Decision Making / Problem Solving
- Stress Management (of self)
Important: Applications without all three examples will not be progressed.
CVs are accepted however, please complete the relevant sections above or attach your examples as a Word document
Assessment & Interview
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a work-based test (currently scheduled for around week commencing 22nd June 2026) to assess:
- Typing speed (minimum 30 words per minute)
- Spelling and grammar
- Telephone and data entry skills
Interviews are expected to follow around week commencing 6th July 2026 or the week after.
Reasonable adjustments are available throughout the recruitment process upon request.
Benefits:
Some benefits of working for Nottinghamshire Police include but are not limited to:
Pension scheme – We pay around double the member contribution
Support networks and wellbeing
Annual leave entitlement – Starting at 24 days and increasing with length of service
Blue Light Card discounts
Flexible and agile working where suitable
Please see attached document titled ‘Police Staff Benefits’ for further benefits and information.
For current Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner staff applicants, please note that Nottinghamshire Police would be a new employer. However, an agreement has been made whereby all tenure and length of service will be honoured.
Vetting Level – Recruitment – you must have resided in the UK for at least the last 5 years, with less than 12 months spent abroad (some exceptions for those living on a UK military base).
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
All applicants will be subject to the Nottinghamshire Police Vetting Policy.
Nottinghamshire Police is committed to the principles of Equality, Fairness and Diversity, and we welcome applications from all sections of the community in our efforts to recruit a diverse and flexible workforce that reflects the people we serve.
Reasonable adjustments will be considered at a later stage for candidates successfully shortlisted. Please be aware, this will not cause any detriment or impact to your application, our aim is to support you throughout the process.
