Over 30 former Armed Forces personnel have joined the Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC) over the past year, bringing military experience and specialist skills to the police force responsible for protecting the UK’s civil nuclear sector.
As the UK marks Armed Forces Week, the CNC is recognising the contribution of the armed forces community across the organisation and reaffirming its commitment to recruiting, supporting, and developing those with military connections.
Over the past year, CNC representatives have attended British Forces Resettlement Services (BFRS) and Ministry of Defence Career Transition Partnership (CTP) events in Edinburgh, Newcastle, Catterick, and Tidworth, as well as visiting Merseyside Marine Reserves to discuss career opportunities.
Serving personnel and veterans also attended a BFRS webinar, where CNC Authorised Firearms Officers (AFO) shared their experiences of moving from military service into policing and answered questions about recruitment, relocation, and life in the force.
One person who met the CNC team at a military resettlement event was PC Robert Fielder, a student AFO who recently left the Army after 24 years’ service and is now completing the CNC’s Initial Foundation Programme (IFP).
PC Robert Fielder.
PC Fielder enlisted in 2002 and served for 24 years in the Army, including operational deployments, instructor appointments, and overseas postings, before joining the CNC.
He said “I was presented with multiple employment opportunities during my transition. However, I was seeking another career in a uniformed capacity that upholds similar values and standards.”
For PC Fielder, Armed Forces Week has particular significance as he begins life as a veteran.
He added “Having served a full career in the armed forces and now being a veteran, it is a time of year to come together and celebrate and honour the entire military community and their families. It is something I am proud to be part of because it has shaped and developed the person I am.”
The CNC holds a Silver Award in the Armed Forces Covenant Employer Recognition Scheme and is working towards Gold, reflecting its commitment to the armed forces community.
Veterans, reservists and cadet force volunteers continue to make an important contribution across the CNC.
PC George McCafferty, a National Firearms Instructor, joined the CNC after a 20-year Army career and now helps train and develop CNC officers.
PC George McCafferty.
Firearms Training Facilities Co-ordinator Andrew Holcroft continues to serve as a reservist with 81 Signal Squadron, Royal Signals, alongside his CNC role.
Firearms Training Facilities Co-ordinator Andrew Holcroft.
PC Mel Bishop has been involved with the Army Cadets for almost 25 years and continues to support the development of young people as an adult volunteer instructor.
PC Mel Bishop.
Assistant Chief Constable Kerry Smith said “Veterans, reservists and other members of the Armed Forces community contribute so much to the CNC and our ability to deliver our mission.
“Whether they join us as officers or police staff, they bring valuable experience and skills that support their roles and add to our wider organisational culture.
“Armed Forces Week is an excellent opportunity for us to show our appreciation for their service.”
To learn more about life in the CNC following service in the Armed Forces, visit www.cnc.jobs/military-personnel.
