A REVIEW has been launched after a higher than expected number of officers left Norfolk police at the beginning of this year.According to a Norfolk Police Authority report “there had been almost double the expected amount of leaves in March and April 2009”.

A REVIEW has been launched after a higher than expected number of officers left Norfolk police at the beginning of this year.

According to a Norfolk Police Authority report “there had been almost double the expected amount of leaves in March and April 2009”. It said that there were some “initial indicators” to explain why this happened; there was a need to fully understand the reasons.

The departures coincide with the introduction of a new structure within the force, including a new shift pattern which has proven unpopular with some officers as it means they have fewer consecutive rest days.

Last year a total of 32 officers left the force compared with 17 the previous year.

But Malcolm Sneesby, chairman of the Norfolk Police Federation, said he did not think this was a key factor.

He added: “There are undoubtedly a number of officers who still are not happy with the new structure and the new shift pattern. Some are beginning to accept it but there are still issues to be addressed.

“However, while this may have played a small part in the number leaving the force, I have not seen any evidence to suggest it is a significant factor.

“There are other more important issues such as the number of officers who completed 30-years service at the same time and were able to retire on a full pension.”

A review will be carried out and will report back to the authority's professional standards and HR committee.