Leaving the Police — Resignation, References, and What Next
Leaving policing is a significant career step. The resignation process, pension preservation, references, and post-service support all need active management.
Unofficial independent resource — always verify with official sources (College of Policing, your force, PFEW).
Who this guide is for
- Officers considering resigning
- Officers approaching ordinary retirement
- Officers transitioning to civilian careers
- Officers who have decided to leave but want to do it cleanly
What to do first
Request a pension forecast from your scheme administrator. Speak to NARPO and Police Care UK before deciding. Talk to your Federation rep.
Step-by-step guide
- 1
Reflect on the decision
Talk to family, your Federation rep, and OH if relevant. There is no rush. Many officers benefit from advice before formal notice.
- 2
Check your pension position
Pension preservation rules depend on scheme (1987, 2006, CARE 2015) and length of service. A formal pension forecast is essential.
- 3
Submit written notice
Notice period is typically one month. Submit through your force HR system. Be courteous and professional.
- 4
Conduct an exit handover
Cases, equipment, security passes — handover cleanly. Your reputation matters for references and second careers.
- 5
Plan post-service welfare
Many leavers underestimate identity change and loss of routine. NARPO, Police Care UK, and Oscar Kilo can support post-service.
Your rights
- Right to resign with proper notice
- Right to pension preservation per scheme rules
- Right to a factual reference
- Right to OH access during notice period
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Resigning in anger after a single incident
- Failing to take a pension forecast before notice
- Burning bridges in the final weeks
- Underestimating post-service identity loss
When to get help
Federation rep for the resignation process. Pension administrator for forecasts. NARPO for retirement planning and post-service support. Police Care UK for trauma or wellbeing transition.
Related templates & resources
Official sources
BlueLineHub is independent and unofficial. Always verify with the authoritative source below.
- Verify on official source
gov.uk — Police pensions
Pension scheme rules and preservation
Last checked: May 2026 - Verify on official source
NARPO
National Association of Retired Police Officers
Last checked: May 2026 - Verify on official source
Police Care UK
Post-service welfare and trauma support
Last checked: May 2026 - Verify on official source
PFEW — Leaving the Service
Federation guidance
Last checked: May 2026
Frequently asked questions
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