Why does bankruptcy and debt affect joining the police force?
It is because you are seen as being more likely to be tempted to accept bribes from criminals, if you have debt. The police force have always been good at giving their staff subsidised housing/mortgage help, and this is precisely to help prevent officers getting into debt. I know the above is fact, but I also assume that as being in the police force is a very responsible career, you should be showing your responsibility by being financially solvent too.
Picture this. You are a cop who is in heavy debt and or a bankrupt. You come across a drug dealer, there are no witnesses and the dealer offers you say £1000 cash on the spot not to dob him in. Or he gives you a big chunk of money and offers to do the same every week so long as you do not go to certain places at certain times or if you will just turn a blind eye. Recent events such as 2 Police officers being convicted of Murders demonstrate that even those who match all the criteria for being in the Police are not above breaking the law. So in the case of existing debt, it is considered wise not to put these people into a role which could be compromised. It is true that many people who are in debt would never do anything like that which is in my example, but if someone who is in debt is employed and then goes on to do something like it, imagine the backlash on the authority that employed them.
You must be of sound financial status Police officers are in a privileged position with regard to access of information and could be considered potentially vulnerable to corruption. Applicants to the police service should not therefore be under pressure from undischarged debts or liabilities and should be able to manage loans and debts sensibly. Applicants who have existing County Court Judgements outstanding against them or who have been registered bankrupt and their bankruptcy debts have not been discharged will not be considered. Applicants who have discharged County Court Judgements may be considered. Applicants who have been registered as bankrupt and their bankruptcy debts have been discharged will only be considered after three years from discharge of the debt. Recruitment is dependent upon successful financial vetting checks.
