Support when leaving the service

We support people like you who are either about to start the process of ill health retirement or are going through that process. We offer support in both cases.

Discover support for life after the police

We hope this guide helps you understand what ill health retirement means and, through the experiences of others who have been in your position, reassures you that you don't have to face this alone.
  • What Ill Health Retirement Means

    A career in policing is built on service, responsibility, and resilience. You may have imagined finishing your full service, choosing when to retire, and stepping away with a sense of completion.

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  • Two types of ill health retirement

    Ill health retirement can feel sudden and deeply life-changing, particularly if you expected to complete your policing career on your own terms

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  • When Your Career Ends Earlier Than Expected

    Most people who join policing don't imagine leaving early. Here's how we can support you

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  • Adjusting to the Practical Changes

    Alongside the emotional impact, ill health retirement can also bring practical concerns. Here's how we can support you

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  • The Mental Health Impact

    Even when ill health retirement is the right and necessary step, the process can be mentally exhausting

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  • Finding Your New Direction

    Although ill health retirement may feel like an abrupt ending, it can also become the beginning of something new

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  • Why Understanding Ill Health Retirement Matters

    Ill health retirement is not simply a pension category

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