Detective DHEP – FAQs

Detective DHEP – Frequently asked questions

What are the fundamental differences between the Police Constable-DHEP and Detective Constable-DHEP?

The PC-DHEP is a two year programme of learning which equips the student officer to successfully operate as a uniformed Police Officer – with the majority of initial training spent on response. The Detective-DHEP is a more intensive two year programme of learning approached from an investigative lens. The Detective-DHEP requires student officers to complete all elements of the PC-DHEP Graduate Diploma in Professional Policing Practice plus the National Investigators Exam (NIE) and all the required additional learning to gain their PIP2 accreditation preparing the student officer for an investigative career as a detective.

Is the application process the same?

No, there are a number of differences. Only candidates registered on the Talent Bank will be sent a link to the application. Providing they meet the eligibility criteria they will experience the online assessment (currently in place due to COVID restrictions). Upon passing the online assessment successful applicants will be invited for a Force panel interview, chaired by a Senior detective and including a further assessment which will look at the skills required to become an investigator. Upon successful completion of the assessment centre and interview stages, the pre-employment checks will be the same; these include a fitness test and BMI check, references, medical and vetting.

If I apply when can I expect to start?

The application and assessment process to become a police officer can take several months to complete. The DC DHEP intakes will start in Autumn 2023.

Can an experienced investigator from a different sector or a force civilian investigator apply for the detective DHEP if they don’t have a degree?

No, even though they may have relevant experience all candidates for the DHEP entry route must already hold a degree.

What are the key differences?

• Student officers on the PC-DHEP are uniformed response officers for the two years of their probation. For the Detective-DHEP student officers are only in uniform for approx. 10 weeks whilst being tutored where they must achieve independent patrol status. Following this and for the rest of their programme Detective-DHEP student officers will be in a non-uniformed investigative environment.
• Due to the minimal amount of time in uniform student detectives will not be given a response driving course, however they will be required to pass a basic police driving assessment.
• In addition to all the requirements of a PC-DHEP which includes academic and operational assessments, student detectives will be required to study in their own time for the National Investigators Exam (NIE), attend and pass the PIP2 interview training and the PIP2 Investigator Development Programme and complete their portfolio for PIP2 accreditation.

Is there a difference in pay?

There is no difference in pay, all student officers irrespective of entry route start at pay point one or £29,682 (which includes £3,000 South-East allowance) (correct as at 04/08/2022). However, there may be the opportunity of additional bonus payments depending on where you are posted.

If I don’t pass my NIE detective exam can I still qualify as a detective?

No, however you will be given one opportunity to re-sit the exam. Student officers are given support whilst preparing for the NIE; including two days paid study leave if matched with two days annual leave. TVP has also arranged for Police Pass to provide revision books, a two day crammer course and their blended eLearning package. Student officers can also attend TVP’s own Kickstarter Study Day where advice is given around techniques for study and passing the exam.

If I join the Police Constable – DHEP will I still have opportunity to become a detective?

Yes. Once you pass your probation and become a substantive Police Constable you have the opportunity to pursue other specialisms if you wish, including taking your National Investigators Exam (NIE) which is required for a detective career.