This month, the Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC) celebrates a significant milestone with the commencement of its 100th initial foundation training programme for new Authorised Firearms Officers (AFOs).
This landmark achievement underscores the CNC’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding the UK’s civil nuclear infrastructure.
Comprehensive Training Programme
The initial foundation training programme (IFP) for recruits is an intensive 18-week residential course, covering a comprehensive range of policing skills and essential firearms training. Since the inception of these courses in 2014, hundreds of students have successfully completed the rigorous training to become CNC AFOs.
In 2023, the introduction of the Non-Home Office Police Apprenticeship Programme prompted the CNC to expand training locations beyond their Culham Headquarters and Bisley Firearms Training Unit (FTU).
As a result, this year’s courses have taken place at various sites across the country, making the training more accessible to recruits.
Training Closer to Home
Ch Supt Sheree Owen, Head of the CNC’s Training Division, expressed her delight at this milestone.
She stated,
“It’s doubly special because it’s the 100th programme we have run, and because it’s taking place for the first time ever at Dounreay in Scotland.”
The decision to utilize northern training centres for the IFPs allows the CNC to offer candidates bespoke training closer to their homes. This approach acknowledges the challenges recruits face when leaving their families and commitments for extended training periods.
“IFP 100 is off to a flying start, and I look forward to welcoming our next cohort of officers at their pass out parade,” Owen added.
Dounreay Training Hub
The Dounreay site, now hosting the 100th IFP, features two training facilities named the ‘Noble’ and ‘Sinclair’ hubs. These hubs are named in memory of former Dounreay-based colleagues who sadly passed away while in service.
Supt Lynsay Hernandez, based at Dounreay, expressed enthusiasm for hosting the milestone programme.
“We are currently recruiting for AFOs at our Dounreay site, as well as for our Sellafield site in Cumbria. Having the training facility here in Scotland now provides a real opportunity for local people to train close to home, which I am certain will be more attractive to them,” Hernandez stated.
More Details About the Civil Nuclear Constabulary
Main Point |
Details |
|---|---|
| Established | 2005, replacing the Atomic Energy Authority Constabulary |
| Personnel | Over 1,500 police officers and support staff |
| Armed Officers | All frontline officers are routinely armed |
| Operational Sites | Ten sites across England, Scotland, and Wales |
| Jurisdiction | Typically within 5km of nuclear sites, can expand for mutual aid |
| Command Units | BCU North and Scotland, BCU South |
| Responsibilities | Protecting licensed civil nuclear sites and safeguarding nuclear material |
| Headquarters | Culham Science Centre, Oxfordshire |
| Role in National Security | Crucial in protecting the UK’s nuclear infrastructure |
CNC’s Broader Role
The CNC is a specialised armed police force tasked with protecting civil nuclear sites and nuclear materials across the UK. Established in 2005, the CNC has grown to include over 1,500 officers and support staff, all dedicated to maintaining national security.
The force operates at ten sites across England, Scotland, and Wales, working in partnership with local police forces to ensure comprehensive security measures.
The CNC’s jurisdiction usually extends within a 5km radius of UK nuclear sites but can be expanded when providing mutual aid to other forces.
Organised into two Basic Command Units (BCUs) – BCU North and Scotland, and BCU South – the CNC’s responsibilities include the protection of licensed civil nuclear sites and safeguarding nuclear material in transit.
Ongoing Recruitment and Future Prospects
The CNC continues to recruit new officers, particularly for its Dounreay and Sellafield sites. The establishment of training facilities closer to these locations aims to attract local candidates, providing them with the opportunity to train near their communities.
Candidates interested in joining the exceptional team of AFOs at Dounreay or Sellafield are encouraged to visit the CNC recruitment website at www.cnc.jobs for more information.
Sources: THX News, Civil Nuclear Constabulary, CNC Report, LinkedIn & Civil Nuclear Police Authority.
