Q&A - Student officers: What happens if I am subject to Regulation 12 or 13?

12 January 2024

I am a student officer and I have been told that my probationary period might be extended, what should I do?

If you have been told (by HR or your line manager) that your probationary period might be extended, it sounds like you have been given notification of Regulation 12.

What is Regulation 12?

Regulation 12 of the Police Regulations 2003 allows for the chief officer to extend the probationary period in the ‘circumstances of a particular case’ to address areas such as identified performance or attendance issues. This could also occur if an officer has been absent for a significant period of time and is unable to demonstrate the necessary competencies within the relevant time period and/or where further development has been agreed upon but additional time is required to achieve competence.

If this sounds familiar, you should contact your local West Mercia Police Federation representative immediately. Your Federation rep can offer advice from the earliest stage and support you through the process to ensure you are provided with appropriate guidance and any necessary adjustments you may require.

Will I automatically get an extension if I am notified of Regulation 12?

No, in some cases, the extension can be declined. Each case is considered on their particular circumstances. An extension is given under the discretion of the Chief Constable, who will provide written confirmation of the extension if approved.

I am a student officer and I have been told a case conference is to be held to look at whether my career in the police will be terminated, what should I do?

Regulation 13 (Discharge of a Probationer) of the Police Regulations 2003 provides the grounds on which a Chief Constable may dispense with the services of a student officer at any time during their probationary period.

The Police Regulations 2003 states that:

The services of a constable may be dispensed with at any time if the chief officer of police considers that they are not fit, physically or mentally, to perform the duties of their office OR that they are not likely to become an efficient or well conducted constable.

This decision can only be made by the Chief Constable.

If you have been given notification of Regulation 13, you should contact West Mercia Police Federation immediately.

When should I contact the Police Federation?

The sooner you get in touch with the Police Federation, the earlier we can offer advice. This will mean the procedure is carried out correctly and the right support is put in place.

Who can be notified of Regulation 12 or 13?

Any student officer - no matter what their entry route into policing - can be notified of Regulation 12 or 13.

Regulations 12 and 13 do not apply to those who are outside of their probationary period.

Can I be notified of Regulations 12 and 13 at the same time?

In short, Regulation 12 can lead to a student officer being notified of Regulation 13. For example, if after one or more periods of extension under Regulation 12, an officer does not demonstrate satisfactory improvement, a recommendation can be made to the chief officer to dispense under Regulation 13.

If you are given notification of Regulation 12 or 13, please do not hesitate to get in touch with the Federation. Early intervention from the Police Federation will enable us to understand your specific circumstances and give the necessary time to ensure support and adjustments are provided.

Will a Federation representative be able to represent me?

Yes, that is exactly why the Police Federation exists. A West Mercia Police Federation representative will be able to have those conversations with your line managers and be present at any relevant meetings or case conferences.

I am a student officer and I am struggling.

If you are a student officer, you might be worrying or concerned about:

Managing your workload
Sticking to deadlines
Shift patterns
Balancing police training, life and studying
Your mental health and wellbeing
Living with a neurodiverse condition, for example, dyslexia, autism, ADHD.

These are just a few examples that can have a huge impact on your overall performance or attendance. If you are struggling, then get in touch with a Federation representative as soon as possible and we will help to put the correct support in place when necessary.

You might unknowingly be living with a neurodiverse condition like dyslexia or autism - both are more common than you may realise. By contacting the Federation, we can work with you to ensure the correct tests are carried out, which will mean you receive efficient support moving forward.

I am worried about admitting that I am struggling.

There are many reasons why you might be struggling but it is nothing to be ashamed of. At West Mercia Police Federation, we provide a non-judgemental, safe space for anyone to talk.

Remember, the earlier you get in touch with your local Federation representative, the sooner we can ensure the right support and guidance are put in place.