More than 30 former Armed Forces personnel have transitioned into roles with the Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC) over the past year, leveraging their extensive military experience to protect the UK's vital civil nuclear infrastructure. This influx of talent coincides with Armed Forces Week, a period dedicated to recognising the contributions of the armed forces community.
The CNC, which is the armed police force responsible for the security of civil nuclear sites and materials in the UK, has actively sought to recruit individuals with military backgrounds. Over the last year, the constabulary has engaged with potential recruits at various British Forces Resettlement Services (BFRS) and Ministry of Defence Career Transition Partnership (CTP) events across the country, including in Edinburgh, Newcastle, Catterick, and Tidworth. These efforts also extended to a webinar where current CNC Authorised Firearms Officers (AFOs) shared their personal journeys from military service to policing, offering insights into recruitment, relocation, and life within the force.
One such recruit is PC Robert Fielder, a student AFO who recently concluded 24 years of service in the Army. PC Fielder, who had multiple employment opportunities upon leaving the military, chose the CNC due to its alignment with his desire for a uniformed career that upholds similar values and standards. His experience underscores the appeal of the CNC for veterans seeking a new career path that utilises their disciplined background.
The CNC's dedication to the armed forces community is further evidenced by its Silver Award in the Armed Forces Covenant Employer Recognition Scheme, with the organisation actively working towards achieving Gold status. Veterans, reservists, and cadet force volunteers contribute significantly across the CNC, with examples including PC George McCafferty, a National Firearms Instructor with a 20-year Army career, and Andrew Holcroft, a Firearms Training Facilities Co-ordinator who also serves as a reservist with 81 Signal Squadron, Royal Signals.
Assistant Chief Constable Kerry Smith highlighted the invaluable contribution of veterans, reservists, and other members of the Armed Forces community to the CNC's mission. She stated that whether they join as officers or police staff, their valuable experience and skills not only support their specific roles but also enrich the wider organisational culture. Armed Forces Week provides an important opportunity for the CNC to express its gratitude for their service.