The Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC) is celebrating International Women’s Day 2026 by highlighting the achievements and growing influence of women across the UK’s specialist nuclear
policing force.
Tasked with protecting the nation’s civil nuclear facilities, safeguarding the transport of nuclear materials and securing other critical infrastructure, the CNC says women play an increasingly important role in every area of its operations—from frontline armed policing to senior leadership.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain,” focuses on the idea that investing in support, opportunity and mentorship for women benefits organisations and society as a whole. For the CNC, the theme reflects both its mission as a public service police force and its ongoing commitment to building a more inclusive workplace.
Women rising across the ranks
More than 400 women now serve within the CNC, making up nearly a quarter of the organisation’s workforce. Female officers and staff hold positions at every level of the force—from new recruits to senior leadership, including the rank of Assistant Chief Constable.
Women also work across a broad range of specialist roles that support operational policing, intelligence, logistics and administrative functions essential to the force’s mission.
Notably, the CNC reports the highest proportion of female Authorised Firearms Officers (AFOs) in UK policing, a milestone in a field traditionally dominated by men. The achievement reflects the organisation’s effort to encourage and support women pursuing careers in the most demanding areas of armed policing.
Training reforms boost success rates
To further support recruits entering operational firearms roles, the CNC recently introduced a series of improvements to training within its Initial Foundation Programme (IFP).
Following a data-driven review of the firearms training phase, the force implemented enhanced coaching, personalised tuition and additional support mechanisms for recruits during training.
The results have been significant: the overall pass rate for recruits has risen to more than 77%, while maintaining the strict standards set by the College of Policing National Police Firearms Training Curriculum.
Officials say the improvements ensure every recruit—including women pursuing operational firearms roles—has the support necessary to meet the demanding standards required for armed policing.
Building a more inclusive police force
Alongside operational changes, the CNC has also strengthened its internal support systems and workplace policies.
The organisation recently climbed to 36th place in the annual ranking by Inclusive Employers, reflecting the impact of multiple initiatives designed to support diversity and employee wellbeing.
These include enhanced maternity leave provisions, flexible working arrangements and the signing of the Fertility Support Pledge, which aims to better support employees undergoing fertility treatment.
Staff networks across the force also provide guidance and peer support on issues such as becoming a new parent and managing menopause, helping create a workplace where employees feel supported throughout their careers.
Recognising the contribution of women in policing
As International Women’s Day is marked across the world, the CNC says recognising the achievements of women in policing is about more than celebration—it is about ensuring the next generation of officers sees opportunities to lead, serve and succeed.
By continuing to invest in support programmes, training improvements and inclusive policies, the force hopes to strengthen both its workforce and its ability to protect some of the UK’s most sensitive infrastructure.
ACC Kerry Smith, CNC’s Executive Lead for People, said: “International Women’s Day allows us to recognise the contribution female officers and staff make alongside our male colleagues in delivering our vital role protecting critical national infrastructure.
“I am proud we have created a culture of inclusivity, built on respect, teamwork and supportive policies that enable women to be their best. This IWD, we celebrate all that women have achieved in policing and encourage anyone considering a career in policing to take that step.” Photo by Douglas Sinclair, Wikimedia commons.
Naomi Atkin