Applicants 18 years and over

As a general principle applicants who have had convictions or cautions for violence or dishonesty, whilst 18 years or over, will not be considered.

The recruiting officer may be able to consider applicants with convictions or cautions, including reprimands and warning that relate to antisocial behaviour but this depends on how long ago the incident took place. This is different for each type of crime.

17 Years and under

The recruiting officer may be able to consider applicants with convictions or cautions, including reprimands and warnings. In the case of offences of dishonesty or violence or other antisocial offences the applicant will not normally be considered until a minimum of five years have passed since the date of the last conviction or caution.

Failure by an applicant to disclose information relating to any caution or conviction will result in rejection.

It is the standard policy and practice of the South Yorkshire Police Recruiting Department to advise unsuccessful applicants at all stages of selection why they have not been selected. It is normal practice for the applicant to be considered on his or her merit. However, there may be occasions when the convictions of a close relative or associate mean this is not possible.

Under these circumstances the Recruiting Department would not be able to give or discuss the reasons for the applicant's rejection. Notwithstanding the above the Chief Constable reserves the right to reject applicants without giving reasons.