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Detective Hub

For DCs, aspiring detectives, and CID officers — the detective pathway, PIP accreditation, NIE exam prep, ABE interviewing, disclosure obligations, and specialist investigative skills.

Unofficial independent resource — always verify with official sources (College of Policing, your force, PFEW).

What do you need today?

Jump to the detective resource or investigative skill you need right now.

Detective Pathway

Career

Step-by-step route from uniformed response to accredited detective via PIP levels.

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PIP Levels Explained

PIP

PIP Level 1 to 4 — what each means, how to achieve accreditation, and NPPF links.

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NIE Exam Preparation

Exam

National Investigators Exam — syllabus, study resources, and past paper tips.

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ABE Interview Guide

Investigative

Achieving Best Evidence — how to conduct video-recorded interviews lawfully.

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Disclosure & CPIA

Legal

CPIA obligations, unused material, and managing disclosure schedules.

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Statement Writing

Skills

Best practice for written statements, MG11 forms, and officer note-taking.

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Key guides for detectives

Detective vs Uniformed ConstableDigital Evidence & Cyber Crime GuideStop and Search Best Practice 2026Police Misconduct — Your Rights ExplainedHow to Pass the Sergeant's Exam First Time

Tools for detectives

Force Finder

Find forces with strong detective departments and specialist units.

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Promotion Planner

Track CVF evidence and plan your NPPF DS or DI promotion timeline.

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Learning Hub

CPD resources, College of Policing courses, and investigative training.

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Legal Reference

PACE, CPIA, and key legislation for detective work.

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Related templates

MG11 Witness Statement TemplateDisclosure Officer Log TemplateNIE Study Plan Worksheet

Community forum

CID & DetectivesSpecialist RolesPromotion & Career

Glossary terms

PIP
Professionalising Investigation Programme
NIE
National Investigators Exam
CID
Criminal Investigation Department
DC
Detective Constable
SIO
Senior Investigating Officer
MIT
Major Investigation Team

Official sources for detectives

BlueLineHub is independent and unofficial. Always verify with the authoritative source below.

  • College of Policing — PIP Guidance

    Authorised Professional Practice for investigators, PIP levels, and accreditation.

    Last checked: April 2026
    Verify on official source

  • Crown Prosecution Service

    CPS guidance on evidence, disclosure, charging, and case management.

    Last checked: April 2026
    Verify on official source

  • NPCC — Detective Guidance

    National guidance on detective workforce, RASSO, fraud, and specialist units.

    Last checked: April 2026
    Verify on official source

  • IOPC — Misconduct Guidance

    Guidance on police misconduct procedures relevant to detective investigations.

    Last checked: April 2026
    Verify on official source

Last reviewed: April 2026