I just wondered what peoples plans were for emigrating, career break or straight forward resignation? I'm not decided. A break gives me a safety net should I wish to return, but resignation gives me access to my pension, which according to Canadian law, will allow me to take some of it as a deposit for a house. Any opinions?

I'm joining SAPOL in April 2010, I applied for a career break but it got refused as I was going to work for another organisation. It doesn't really change things, I'm still going. I know some UK Police Forces do give them so maybe worth applying for one anyway....

Paul

You cannot access your pension for a few years after you emigrate or the UK tax man takes around 40% - there is a threat on the issue.

I don't have the option of a career break so it will be resignation for me, if I get offered a job!

Hi all,

I intend to take a career break, as a preferential re-join. Another officer from my force has just gone out to CPS and was allowed the CB.

Re. the pension, you can transfer your police pension to a recognised scheme in Canada as listed on the below:
http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/PENSIONSCHEMES/qrops.pdf

Nige

I took a career break ( 5 years) which is coming to an end. I can still access my pension after that. Nothing beats teh security of knowing I have a job to go back to.

Amen to that. I think - if you can take one , then take it. Some forces are very anti - and some are OK. Give it a go and see what happens.

You can access funds from your pension and not pay any UK tax.This depends on a few factors such as what you are using it for. There is a pension advisor doing the rounds who is misinformed and scaremongering regarding paying tax.
Make sure you know who you are dealing with regarding pension transfer and thet they have a proven track record. Its not as simple as it sounds.