How much money police officers now earn in the UK
Police officers across England and Wales are set to receive an above-inflation 4.2% pay rise, the government has announced.
The increase, which applies to all ranks up to and including chief superintendents, forms part of a wider effort to support frontline policing and public protection.
- The pay increase will mean the starting salary for a police constable will be £31,163, up by an additional £1,256.
- The typical salary for a constable who has been in post for six years will now be £50,257
- The average earnings for a chief superintendent will now be £98,500.
In addition to the headline pay rise, the government is also increasing on-call, away-from-home, and hardship allowances by £10. London weighting will be boosted by 4.2%, reflecting the demands placed on officers in the capital.
“Our brave police officers work day and night, often making enormous sacrifices, to keep us safe. This government is proud to back them in doing so, and today’s pay award is a clear signal of our gratitude and our determination to ensure they are properly rewarded for their service,” said Home Secretary Yvette Cooper.
“Policing is the bedrock of a secure Britain and our Plan for Change. We are committed to investing in the frontline and supporting officers who work every day to tackle crime, keep our streets safe and protect our communities.”
The pay rise forms part of the government’s Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee. Measures in the guarantee include:
- Restoring neighbourhood policing to cut crime in our communities and keep our streets safe
- Named, contactable officers for every neighbourhood
- Guaranteed police patrols in busy areas at peak times, such as town centres
- New career pathways and standards from the College of Policing
As part of this commitment, the government has already provided funding of up to £1.2 billion to police forces this year, including £200 million to put an additional 3,000 neighbourhood officers by next spring.
