RE:
I think joining the police is an excellent idea in the medium term. I am a newly-promoted Inspector and having just finished the PPL am considering doing the Night, IMC and some hour building this year. Unsure as to whether to start ATPLs or not. I think I will leave it until I have about 70 hours P1.
You may find it tough to pay for flying on a new PC's wage unless your outgoings are very low but it is a secure job in these turbulent times and depending on where you work good potential for overtime as well (which I don't get paid anymore as an Insp!).