Within the Police Constabulary, there is a clear chain of command. It is important that you are aware of the hierarchy and who to speak to should there be an issue. Please bear in mind that you should not always go to the highest-ranked officer who is around, as the senior management are exceptionally busy. Furthermore, if you are seen to be abusing the chain of command or being unkind to other officers you are risking removal from the Police.
You can look at the gear list for an overview of what gear and vehicles you have access to at what rank.
PCSOs are the recruits in the Police. They will receive all the training they require throughout this rank and will develop their core policing skills in order to prepare for their police career. PCSOs do not hold a position in a specific department, as this is an opportunity for them to work in different jurisdictions so that they can make a confident decision when they pass their Assessed Patrol. PCSOs are not allowed to patrol outside of the green zone alone, unless they are accompanied by an SPC or above.
The Police Community Support Officer reports directly to the Recruitment Training Officers (RTOs) and/or the S/RTO's (Senior Recruitment Training Officers)
PCs are responsible for regularly patrolling and enforcing laws and rights of civilians. They will issue citations and make arrests as a team and follow the rules, procedures and standards that are in place. They are also responsible for assisting PCSOs and ensuring that they understand how to work as a team, use radio communications, understand the rules and regulations, and how the chain of command works.
Detective Sergeants are responsible for feeding back vital information to the department management. They are responsible for setting an example and will be experienced and confident officers. They are able to hand out warrants for house raids.
Inspectors are experienced officers who know the government and police rules, regulations, and procedures very well. They are responsible for aiding officers in their development, leading during operations and ensuring that officers are distributed evenly and that they are patrolling in their correct jurisdictions. This rank is not awarded just on time served.
Chief Inspector is the first rank of which allows access to the Police Interpol. Chief Inspectors will assist Superintendents where required and are responsible for demonstrating excellent standards. The core role of the Chief Inspector is to become used to the administrative aspects of the Police leadership ranks. This rank also gives access to unmarked vehicles on patrol.
The Superintendent is the second in charge of their respective department and will be delegated specific roles by the Chief Superintendent. Their prime job is to uphold and demonstrate high standards within the Police and deal with most complaints within departments.
The Chief Superintendent is in charge of their respective department and the overall running, organisation and standards within them. They will always ensure that officers are respecting the rules, promoting the standards expected and they will deal with complaints and disciplinary procedures. The Chief Superintendent is required to demonstrate excellent leadership and organisational skills in order to lead their department forward.
The Assistant Chief Constables work closely with department (including special departments) management to ensure that departments are running smoothly and there are no issues.
They work along side the D/CC and CC to make decisions and deal with issues within the APC
The Deputy Chief Constable works closely with the Assistant Chief Constables and the Chief Constable to ensure the Police is running smoothly and address any issues.
The Deputy Chief Constable has the final say in most matters concerning the Police.
The Chief Constable is responsible for the overall running and organisation of the Police. They will always be looking at the wider picture and will be in regular contact with staff to discuss issues and future plans.
The Chief Constable has the final decision in any major issues concerning the Police.