At a Glance
- Tasks: Handle public enquiries and provide top-notch service in various locations across Kent.
- Company: Join Kent Police, a supportive team dedicated to serving the community.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £25,809 with potential increases, plus job security and training.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in customer service and ability to work under pressure.
- Other info: Flexible full-time and part-time roles available, with no weekend or evening shifts.
The predicted salary is between 25809 - 29424 £ per year.
Location of Role: Northfleet, Canterbury, Folkestone, Margate
Advert Closing Date: 12/02/2026
Starting Salary: £25,809.00 (pro-rata for part-time vacancies)
Part/Full Time: Full Time and Part Time Hours Available
Contract Type: Permanent
Working Pattern: Mon-Fri
Weekend/Evening Working: No
Overview
An exciting opportunity has arisen for individuals to undertake the role of Public Enquiry Officer based in various locations in Kent. There is a full-time position available based in Folkestone, and part-time positions available based in Canterbury, Margate and Northfleet. There will be a requirement to cover other stations within your division as part of a rotating 4-week pattern with hours of 0900-1700 and will cover some weekends. You may also be required to travel outside of your division.
This is a challenging role that requires the successful candidate to deal with a wide variety of enquiries from members of the public, as well as colleagues and partner agencies. You will be expected to take relevant information or detailed reports for further investigation and dissemination to appropriate departments or agencies for further action. Enquiries can include but are not limited to, taking accurate and detailed reports of crime (either recent or historic), dealing with bail signers, sign posting queries to correct agencies, as well as dealing with post and deliveries for the station.
Responsibilities
- Deal with a wide variety of enquiries from members of the public, colleagues and partner agencies
- Take relevant information or detailed reports for further investigation and dissemination to appropriate departments or agencies
- Take accurate and detailed reports of crime (recent or historic)
- Deal with bail signers; sign posting queries to correct agencies
- Handle post and deliveries for the station
- Provide a high standard of service delivery and support to the public and colleagues
Qualifications and Requirements
- Experience of working with the public, including in pressurised situations, and delivering a high standard of service
- Ability to treat people with dignity and respect, regardless of circumstances
- Personal responsibility to work effectively both individually and as part of a team
- Ability to make independent decisions and multi-task; inspire confidence in the public
- Willingness to work as part of the wider Public Enquiry Department and with Kent Police colleagues
- Knowledge and experience of delivering customer service and following policy and protocols to achieve best outcomes
- Ability to respond to continuous change and expectations in the public and policing environment
- Evidence of keyboard skills and understanding of computer systems; training provided for unfamiliar databases
- Knowledge of Police Systems such as STORM, Athena, and the Police National Computer (PNC) is an advantage
Additional Information
Kent Police offer incremental increases within this salary band; salary may rise to a maximum of £29,424.00. All posts require vetting and security clearance; vetting information forms will be provided during recruitment.
Kent Police and Essex Police welcome applications regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, sex, or employment status.
If you’re not from the UK, you must be a resident in the UK and have lived here continuously for the last three years and be free from restrictions with indefinite leave to remain. If you’re from the UK you must have lived here continuously for the last three years. This does not apply to those serving abroad in the British Armed Forces.
Public Enquiry Officer (Folkestone/Canterbury/Margate/Northfleet) employer: Essex Police
Contact Detail:
Essex Police Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Public Enquiry Officer (Folkestone/Canterbury/Margate/Northfleet)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role inside out! Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Public Enquiry Officer. This way, when you get that interview, you can show off your knowledge and passion for the job.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former Public Enquiry Officers on LinkedIn or at local events. They can provide insider tips and might even give you a heads-up about job openings.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to customer service and handling enquiries. Role-play with a friend to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and eager to join our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Public Enquiry Officer (Folkestone/Canterbury/Margate/Northfleet)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Public Enquiry Officer. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Customer Service Skills: Since this role involves dealing with the public, it's crucial to demonstrate your customer service experience. Share specific examples of how you've handled enquiries or challenging situations in the past.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us see your qualifications quickly!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex Police
✨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Public Enquiry Officer. Understand the types of enquiries you’ll be handling and think about how your past experiences can relate to these tasks. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
Since this role involves dealing with the public and colleagues, prepare examples that highlight your customer service experience. Think of situations where you’ve successfully managed difficult conversations or provided excellent service under pressure. This will demonstrate your ability to handle the challenges of the job.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your decision-making skills and ability to multi-task. Practice responding to hypothetical situations related to public enquiries, such as how you would handle a distressed member of the public or manage conflicting information. This will help you think on your feet during the interview.
✨Research the Organisation
Take some time to learn about Kent Police and their values. Understanding their mission and how they serve the community will allow you to align your answers with their goals. It shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you’re specifically interested in contributing to their team.