Here are some frequently asked questions of transferees to the Avon and Somerset Constabulary.

Where will I be stationed?

You will be posted to wherever our Force need is at the time. Traditionally, most vacancies occur in the northern part of our Force area.

Will I be able to choose a station to work at?

Postings are decided on the basis of our Force need for personnel at particular locations. Individual preferences will be noted and attempts made to accommodate, depending on the Force's need at the time.

Where will I be able to live?

Current Force policy requires officers to live within a 20 mile radius of their station of posting. However, we would strongly recommend that you do not enter into any lease or purchase of property without the prior consent of Superintendent of Staff Development.

Will I be able to keep my rent/housing allowance?

For those officers who currently receive a housing or rent allowance in their existing force, our Force equivalent allowance to our maximum will be paid. These amounts are as follows:-

• Full transitional rent allowance - £263.67 per month
• Flat rate transitional rent allowance - £131.84 per month
• Standard housing allowance - £197.90 per month
• Half standard housing allowance - £98.95 per month

Will my existing qualifications be honoured?

Any nationally recognised courses or qualifications which you are able to provide evidence of will be recognised by this Force.

How long will my transfer application take?

We will begin to process your application immediately on receipt. Applicants who are successfully shortlisted will be invited for an interview at the Avon and Somerset Police Headquarters, normally within six weeks. Applicants will be notified of the outcome of the interview the same day. We would expect, subject to references and clearance checks, that applicants will take up their appointments within two months.

What will my salary scale be, and when will I be paid?

Officers in this Force are paid in accordance with the national rates. Salaries are paid directly into officer's bank or building society account on the 28th of each month.

Annual Leave

Leave already booked by a successful officer will be honoured for this year, but officers must advise us of these dates in writing when invited to attend the assessment centre.

What promotional prospects are there?

Within Avon and Somerset promotion prospects are good, we normally promote in the region of 45 sergeants and 25 inspectors every year.

Is there a fitness test?

All applicants will be required to attend a medical assessment and a physical fitness test on the day of their assessment.

The fitness test will consist of the following elements:

• Warm up to level 3 on endurance fitness shuttle run (bleep test) followed by two minutes of stretching.
• Endurance fitness shuttle run (bleep test) up to level 5/4.
• Dynamic strength test (dyno machine) - push 34kgs; pull 35kgs.

Will my pension be affected?

Under most circumstances pension rights are directly transferable from one force to another.