Control and Contact Handler
We are hiring Control and Contact Handlers who will be the first point of contact for the police, handling emergency 999 calls, non‑emergency 101 calls, and online or social media communications. The role requires empathy, excellent communication, and the ability to make critical decisions quickly in a fast‑paced 24/7 environment.
Responsibilities
* Respond to a wide variety of calls and messages in a calm, professional manner
* Provide high‑quality customer service to the public and fellow Sussex Police staff
* Log caller information accurately and efficiently
* Make critical decisions under pressure and follow established procedures
* Support colleagues with training and coaching during the 11‑week induction programme
Qualifications and Eligibility
* Age 18 or over (no upper age limit)
* Have lived in the UK for the three years immediately before applying
* Not a current or former member of a proscribed terrorist organisation
* Must not have served a prison sentence
* Fast and accurate typing skills; familiarity with the phonetic alphabet is desirable
Training
All successful candidates will join an 11‑week training course consisting of five weeks of training followed by six weeks of on‑the‑job tutoring. The course runs full time, Monday to Friday, 8:00 – 16:00.
Salary & Benefits
Starting salary: £30 897 per annum, plus an unsocial hours shift allowance of approximately £10 486 in the region for a full‑time shift worker. Other benefits include:
* 25 days annual leave (increases to 30 days with length of service)
* Career progression opportunities
* Contributory pension scheme (LGPS)
* Discounts for everyday spend
* On‑site gyms and sports clubs
* Generous parental leave and financial/mental wellbeing support
* Discounted contributory healthcare scheme
Shift Pattern
The role requires a rotating 32‑week shift pattern, including day, evening, night, weekends and bank holidays. Shift schedules are team‑based to ensure consistent coverage.
Intakes & Training
Successful applicants will be assigned to one of several intake sessions in 2026, including July and September.
Application
To apply, please submit your application via the standard Sussex Police career portal. Review attached documents for full details on the role and its challenges.
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