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FROM THE EDITOR WHEN I read through the final version of Grapevine before sending it to the printers I am always amazed at the work going on across the country to help support NEWS and develop women in From the President’s Desk 2 policing. This issue is no exception with a double page A single force for Scotland 3 spread on pages 8 and 9 showcasing the energy and commitment of those organising a Gender Agenda 3 takes a wider look at how wide range of events. change affects women 4 It is also encouraging that new officers, such as Louise Women playing their part in tackling terrorism 5 Mann on page 10, are still coming into the service with a desire to help people; while long-standing officers, such as Nottinghamshire reviews network aims 6 Jackie Alexander on pages 12 and 13, are experiencing a Police and crime commissioners to replace renewed enthusiasm as they take on new challenges. police authorities 7 But we cannot ignore that policing is going through a period of immense change. A single police service for Scotland and a whole raft of recommendations from Part FEATURES 2 of the Winsor Review (see page 3) will impact upon each Grapevine reports on what and every officer and member of police staff. However, 8-9 six forces have done to change can bring with it opportunities and on page 11 raise morale and inspire there are tips to deal with change and proof from one female officers and staff in woman that it can be all right in the end. these challenging times. This issue has also reaffirmed my long-held belief that the British Cover Story Police Service is amongst the best in In the Spotlight the world. In the past few months 10 Probationer Constable Louise Mann finally the work of the BAWP has inspired a gets her dream job Lebanese policewoman tasked with recruiting 1,200 female officers Personal Development – dealing with change (see page 15) and our vice president 11 Ellie Bird spoke at the first police Assistant Editor: Policing the police Nicky Phillipson women’s conference in Abu Dhabi 12-13 The work of the professional (see page 4 and 15). standards department is crucial to maintaining the public’s confidence in the police, says Detective DATES FOR Superintendent Jackie Alexander YOUR DIARY International News 2012 14 Retired officer leaves London for the desert IAWP Training Conference. St John’s, Newfoundland, Canada. September 9-15. www.iawp2012.org UK policing provides inspiration BAWP Awards Presentation Lunch. Edinburgh. 15 for Lebanese policewoman Tuesday November 6. Scottish Women’s Development Forum PDD. Scottish Police College, Tulliallan. Wednesday November 7. Membership details 16

Editor: Inspector Kim Madill Assistant Editor: Nicky Phillipson Copy deadline for Summer/Autumn issue email: [email protected] email: [email protected] is Friday August 10, 2012.

Grapevine is produced by the British Association Design and production: for Women in Policing. Brookhill Design Studio Limited All rights reserved. No part of this Tel: 01438 722710 publication may be reproduced or Tel: 0844 414 0448 email: [email protected] transmitted in any form without the email: [email protected] www.brookhilldesignstudio.co.uk permission of the BAWP.

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2 NEWS

From the President’s Desk

Policing is certainly a challenging the introduction of police and environment to be working in with crime commissioners will give the so many people facing uncertain power back to the people, I hope futures. This is why the refresh of we see lots of women standing for Gender Agenda couldn’t have come election. AS I write this the recommendations at a better time. The researchers With the Olympics only a matter from Part 2 of the Winsor Review have have been asked not only to look at of months away the world’s eyes just been released. We in BAWP will of the impact of change on officers and will soon be upon us. This is an ideal course be studying them in detail to staff, but also upon women in the opportunity for the UK to prove consider what affect they will have on community. It is this work which we that despite the massive changes women in policing; we spent a great deal can use to ensure women in the we are undergoing it still has some of time on our submission during the community are considered when of the very best officers and staff in consultation period and I hope the points national policy decisions are made. the world who wear their uniform we made were taken into consideration. The Government has promised that with pride. 9

Spring brings new projects for Parwinder

A NEW mentoring scheme, plans to refresh the website, the annual awards International Women’s Day – and membership survey have all been top of the agenda for BAWP’s national March 8, 2012 co-ordinator Parwinder Dale. EVENTS were held across the country to celebrate Adverts for mentors and mentees will be International Women’s Day. In Derby a multi-agency going out in April as part of BAWP’s new scheme Olympics inspired event offered guest speakers, health to offer personal and professional support to information stalls, volunteering opportunities and female officers and staff. If you are interested entertainment with bouncy castles and face painting Parwinder Dale email Parwinder on [email protected] for the children. Other highlights in Parwinder’s diary Sussex Police staged include attending: a more formal affair 5 The Women’s Reserve meeting at with speakers Sir Hugh Federation House, Leatherhead to hear Orde and Chief about the federation’s position on the Constable Lynne Winsor Review. Current equality issues, the Owens. The 400 people impact the Olympics Games will have on attending the City of female officers, riots and the public sector London Police arranged strike were also topics for discussion. event were urged to dig 5 The Equality Liaison Officer and HR deep and raise money seminar organised by the Police Federation for Refuge. In return Poetry competition winners pictured with Met Police Diversity for England and Wales. Its aim was to Director Denise Milani (centre) they were given top develop and improve understanding of ill tips for success by the health pensions and Equality Impact Assessments in respect of key note speakers, who included the actor David Morrissey. police flexible and part time working issues, including police Officers and staff within the Metropolitan Police Service were regulations. given a chance to get creative with a competition to pen a poem 5 Bedfordshire Women’s Network development day, held in Luton. about gender issues and the future of the service. The Metropolitan’s See more on pages 8 and 9. Black Police Association decided their event, aimed to inspire, would 5 A meeting with the chair of the Metropolitan Women Police be a chance to reiterate that networking is not a dirty word. Association. “This was a preliminary meeting looking at different BAWP’s own Parwinder Dale took to the stage at the International ways to celebrate 100 years of women within the service,” said Academy, Bramshill to speak about women in policing to 44 female Parwinder. Look out for more details in Grapevine later in diplomats and wives of diplomats from the Chinese Embassy in the year. 9 the UK. 9

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NEWS 3

I NEW POLICE SERVICE OF SCOTLAND A SINGLE Scottish police force is Scottish Police set to launch in April 2013. Compared to men, Service.” Jackie Officers and staff from the Central added. Scotland Police, Dumfries and Galloway women tend to have a BAWP vice Constabulary, Fife Constabulary, Grampian bigger proportion of president Ellie Bird Police, Lothian and Borders Police, agrees with Jackie Northern Constabulary, Strathclyde Police caring responsibilities that the reform of and Tayside Police as well as colleagues policing in Scotland from the Scottish Police Services Authority and are therefore more could pose a Jackie Muller and the Scottish Crime and Drug challenge for some Enforcement Agency, will be formed into a restricted in where they officers and staff in single body. can work the short term. But she urges those The new chief constable and their involved to look beyond their immediate immediate command team are expected personal and professional plans. “A career to be based initially at the Scottish Police in policing can span 30 years and this College in Tulliallan, Fife. effectively,” she said. However Jackie says reform enables officers to gain experience, A national fire service is also being she is concerned that women could be progress and specialise across every created in a programme of reform which disproportionately affected by the change discipline that policing offers. With that in the Scottish Government says will save an and has already highlighted this issue with mind I am confident that for the majority estimated £1.7 billion over 15 years. the project’s equality lead DCC Steve Allen. these changes create tremendous Jackie Muller, who acts as the equality “Compared to men, women tend to have a opportunities.” lead for Scottish Police Federation, says the bigger proportion of caring responsibilities The Police and Fire (Reform) Scotland new force is a “blank canvas” to build a and are therefore more restricted in where Bill will also establish local senior officers in diverse and non-discriminatory service. they can work. If they are expected to each council area, give parliament formal “Every role and policy will be Equality move for promotion, or to gain wider opportunities to scrutinise services and Impact Assessed and the Scottish Police experience, then they are likely to suffer a create a new Scottish Police Authority Federation look forward to taking an active disproportionate adverse affect on their (SPA) and fire board to hold chief officers part in ensuring that work is carried out opportunities for progress in the new to account. 9 Part 2 of Winsor Review delivers series of recommendations

OFFICERS could be forced to take officers on restricted duties. Such officers have to pass fitness tests and will be paid, annual fitness tests, get paid will see a reduction in their pay after one like officers, based on their ‘contribution’. according their ‘contribution’ and year and could be removed from the force BAWP president Cressida Dick said she work until they are 60 if the after the second year. The review suggests would be studying the recommendations recommendations made in Tom chief officers should be able to make “in detail” to see what affect they could Winsor’s 1,000 page review are officers redundant. have on women in policing. implemented. Competency-related threshold payments If Ms May wishes to implement the Part 2 of the Winsor Review of police will be abolished and officers in roles which recommendations they will first have to be terms and conditions was presented to “do not utilise the powers of the office of considered by the Police Negotiating Board the Home Secretary Theresa May for constable” could see a reduction in pay. (PNB). This may be one of the PNB’s final consideration before being published on The report also proposes a £600 tasks as the review suggests it is abolished March 15. allowance for those with the right skills to and replaced by an independent police pay It also suggests a lower starting salary for work in investigations, neighbourhood review body. 9 probationer constables, a shorter pay scale policing, public order or firearms. The review team has produced for constables and sergeants, a direct entry Police staff payments should be a series of factsheets which can scheme to inspector and superintendent harmonised with police officers, says the be found on their website. rank and more robust ways to deal with review, and those in certain roles should http://review.police.uk/

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4 NEWS

Work continues to shape the agenda for change

SENIOR officers and staff working police officers and within police forces, staff staff are also being associations, the Association of planned. Police Authorities, HMIC and the BAWP vice Fawcett Society are being asked to president Chief help shape Gender Agenda 3. Superintendent Ellie Letters are being sent to key staff inviting Bird says she hopes them to share their views on how the cuts they will get positive to public sector spending and the impending responses from the changes to the governance of policing will people approached affect women. to take part. “There is so much change Gender Agenda 2 was launched in 2006 at an event attended by senior happening in the officers and staff from across the UK. In his opening address the then world of policing and Police Minister Tony McNulty, said: “The adoption of Gender Agenda 2 we want to know the in its entirety is not optional; it is a must if we are to achieve the vision impact it is having of generating a thriving police service which supports women in upon women within, achieving their full potential.” through the use of A19 for example, and outside the we serve are affected by change within the service.” police service.” 9 She added: “This the first time the remit 5 If you or your force wants to get involved of the Gender Agenda has been widened to with developing Gender Agenda 3 contact consider how women in the communities Parwinder Dale by email on [email protected] The long term aims are being reviewed to ensure they consider the impact of the current policing environment BAWP offers support for This is the first time country’s first conference the Gender Agenda has widened its remit to consider how women in the communities we serve are affected by change within the police service

It is hoped the responses will give Manchester Metropolitan University lecturers Dr Wendy Laverick and Liz Cain, BAWP vice president Ellie Bird and committee members Jane Townsley (president of IAWP), who have agreed to help with the review, an Carol Thomas and Julia Jaeger attended the first conference for women in policing across insight into policing in 2012. the United Arab Emirates in February. Ellie, pictured third from left, and Jane, pictured fourth Wendy and Liz have already carried out a from left, also got to meet His Highness Lieutenant General Sheikh Saif Bin Zayed Al comprehensive review of a range of national Nahyan while in Abu Dhabi. policing documents to see what impact they 5 See the full story on page 15 and find out more about policing in the United Arab Emirates have on women in policing. on page 14. A series of focus groups with female

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NEWS 5

INBRIEF WOMEN ARE KEY TO Pilot scheme to test ‘Clare’s law’ PREVENTING TERRORISM A SCHEME under which people will be WOMEN in diverse communities how local police forces could engage with able to ask the police across the UK are being recruited to women. Their thoughts, along with the if their partners have help prevent terrorism and shape identification of wide ranging good practice, a history of domestic delivery of the Government’s has helped to create a toolkit for police forces, violence is being piloted by four police national Counter Terrorism which will be published in spring 2012. forces from this Strategy. The launch also gave the Prevent team a Carmel Napier summer. “fully supportive” It has been recognised that women, who chance to show the impact terrorism can Police in Greater are usually at the heart of homes and have on people and communities through a Manchester, Gwent, Nottinghamshire communities, are best placed to notice number of speakers. and Wiltshire will trial the domestic behavioural changes in their Sajda Mughal, a community violence disclosure scheme for children or in others. This places and women’s rights activist, 12 months. them in a better position to shared her experiences of the Under the scheme victims, or potential safeguard those who are July 7 London terror attacks victims, can be given information about potentially vulnerable to from which she is the only previous violent offending by their recruitment into terrorism. known Muslim survivor. Sajda partner. The pilot will also look at when And now fifty female now leads the JAN Trust a the police can make proactive decisions community leaders and non-governmental to release information. Both processes representatives have been organisation that educates, can be implemented within existing brought together by staff from engages and empowers, legal powers. the ACPO Prevent Delivery Unit at a grass roots level, The initiative has been dubbed Clare’s to look at ways to encourage disadvantaged women law after 36-year-old Clare Wood who women within communities to and girls. was murdered by her former partner. He play their part in tackling all Kalsoom Bashir was part of had three previous convictions under the forms of extremism. the team who launched Jihad Protection from Harassment Act 1997. Project Shanaz is led by against violence at a ACPO lead on domestic abuse Chief Inspector Khizra Dhindsa who Inspector Khizra Dhindsa conference on women’s rights Constable Carmel Napier said ACPO was says it is extremely important in Islam in 2011. She spoke “fully supportive” of the pilot. “A right to know and a right to ask will empower to have female advocates. “These women can about the need to rescue religion where it women to make informed decisions to access communities in a way that the was being used as a criminal ideology and protect themselves and their children Government and Prevent partnerships restore it to its proper place in empowering when getting involved with a new cannot. They are credible voices within their women and building resilient communities. partner,” she said. 9 communities. They are mothers. They are Inspector Dhindsa added: “It is hoped educators. They are community leaders. They that the first meeting marks the start of a are leaders of thought and conscience,” regular forum and a platform for this group Woman to head IPCC she said. to influence future decision-making and the THE former chief inspector of prisons At the project’s first meeting and launch, development of the policy and strategy to Dame Anne Owers has been appointed which was supported by Home Secretary stop people becoming terrorists or to lead the Independent Police Theresa May, the group shared their ideas on supporting terrorism.” 9 Complaints Commission (IPCC). Dame Owers was appointed by the Queen following recommendations from the Home Secretary and Prime Minister. She takes over the part-time role from the current interim chairman Len Jackson. Her strong human rights background includes roles as director of the Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants, and co-director of Justice, the UK based human rights and law reform organisation. 9

5 See also page 12-13 for a feature on Policing the police Female community leaders and representatives gathered to look at ways to help tackle terrorism

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6 NEWS

NEW LEGISLATION TO TACKLE STALKING The Government has pledged to which, when taken separately, may not we can to protect victims of stalking more introduce two specific offences of constitute an offence in themselves. effectively and to end this appalling crime,” stalking in England and Wales. Home Secretary Theresa May said police said Ms May. The new offences of stalking, and would also be given new powers of entry The introduction of the new offences is stalking where there is a fear of violence, to investigate stalking offences. At present part of a package of work undertaken by will be created to sit alongside existing police officers or staff cannot enter a the Government to tackle violence against offences of harassment in the Protection of property while investigating a complaint of women and girls. An updated version Harassment Act 1997. In Scotland stalking harassment. Better training and guidance of the Government’s ‘End violence was made an offence in 2010. on dealing with the victims of stalking has against women and girls’ action plan has Currently the law is designed to capture also been promised for the police and been published on the Home Office the variety of tactics employed by stalkers Crown Prosecution Service. “We will do all website. 9 Network provides decade of support to Nottinghamshire women

MEMBERS of Nottinghamshire Police’s Women’s The current Integrated Network celebrated its ten-year birthday Network aims 5 To build a professional by deciding what the future holds. operating support network which Officers and staff took the chance to review the aims and environment is will encourage and enable objectives of the network and look at how it can work alongside extremely women to maximise their other staff associations and support networks, at a development potential, therefore session in November. challenging….which improving the delivery of The event was hosted by the network’s new chair Chief is why we need to a policing service. Superintendent Helen Jebb and deputy chair Detective Chief 5 To create opportunities Inspector Kate Meynell who said they wanted to take the network recognise the for women by improving to “new levels”. benefits of working access to role models and The force’s two female ACPO, Chief mentors, improving Constable Julia Hodson QPM and in partnership individual performance. Assistant Chief Officer (Resources) with the 5 To act as a critical friend Margaret Monckton and to Nottinghamshire members of the police organisation Police in relation to the authority attended the event and other equality issues which at which the aims of the affect officers and staff. network were discussed . associations 5 To influence the “We all recognised that the development of policy current operating environment t Chief Constable and practice to ensure the is extremely challenging,” said Julia Hodson perspective of women is Helen Jebb, “which is why we considered and effective need to recognise the benefits of consultation carried out. working in partnership with the 5 To provide a local, organisation and other associations.” regional, national and A number of attendees agreed to international perspective join a steering group to develop clear on the issues which affect terms of reference, aims and women in policing, priorities. This group has already supporting the been contributing to policy organisation to deliver development, rewards and optimum performance. recognition and tackling issues of inequality. 9 The aims of the network were discussed

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7

INBRIEF November elections for Police Raising awareness and Crime Commissioners of Ahmadi Muslims

LOCALLY elected police and crime Work is already ongoing commissioners are set to replace police authorities in November and across the country to take on the role of holding chief constables to account. establish shadow police This change in governance comes from and crime panels in the Police and Social Responsibility Act 2011 which received Royal Assent last readiness of the September and follows the Coalition November 15 elections Government’s pledge to ‘give power back to the people’. The commissioners will be paid between Each commissioner’s work will be Shahina Ahmed £60,000 and £100,000 according to the scrutinised by a police and crime panel A CAMBRIDGESHIRE member of police size of the policing area. made up of local councillors and co-opted staff has been acting as a bridge Potential candidates include high profile lay people. The panel is expected to act as a between the police and the UK’s ex-MPs such as John Prescott, ‘critical friend’ to the commissioner. Ahmadi Muslim community in her existing police authority chairs and It will also have a responsibility to own time. members and even the ex- review the draft police and crime plan, Special Constabulary Co-ordinator Falklands war hero and public the proposed precept and the Shahina Ahmed has been working with speaker Simon Weston. He has appointment of a new chief constable. Metropolitan Police Officer PC Lee declared his intention Work is already ongoing Sharp from the Community Together to stand as an across the country to Strategic Engagement Team (CTSET), to independent establish shadow police highlight the plight of the Ahmadi candidate for the post and crime panels in people. in South Wales. readiness of the November In Pakistan the Ahmadiyya If successful Mr 15 elections. community has been prohibited by law Weston would be one of Local authorities are from self-identifying as Muslims and 41 commissioners in charged with supporting and persecuted for their beliefs. England and Wales running the panels and will be Shahina who is an Ahmadi Muslim, charged with determining entitled to £53,300 of put Lee in touch with key members of the local priorities for Government funding per area. her community to help him assess the policing and setting the Panel members can also level of threat for Ahmadi Muslims in police budget in a police claim up to £920 a year the UK. and crime plan. The for necessary expenses. “Ahmadi people have been the commissioners will also be The public get to choose their Staff working for police local police and crime subject of hate crime for many years,” responsible for appointing commissioners on November 15 authorities, who are said Shahina, “however the attacks on the chief constable, currently preparing for the two mosques in Lahore, Pakistan in May consulting with the public transition, will 2010 prompted the CTSET to monitor and bringing partner agencies together to automatically transfer to the employment the potential threat to UK residents.” tackle crime and disorder. They will hold the of police and crime commissioners on the Such discrimination isn’t well known policing budget along with other day that they take office. about which prompted Shahina and Lee community safety funding streams In London the Mayor’s Office for Policing to stage a briefing for staff in the CTSET previously held by local authorities. The and Crime was created in January with the and London Borough commanders. budget, which is expected to be Mayor Boris Johnson and Deputy Mayor for “This type of hate crime can be very ‘unringfenced’, will be used to commission Policing and Crime Kit Malthouse replacing deep-rooted. In Pakistan religious community safety work. These services do the Metropolitan Police Authority. A teachers even prescribe reading not need to be delivered by existing committee set up by the London Assembly materials which refute Ahamdiyya providers such as community safety acts as the police and crime panel. 9 beliefs. It is important that officers partnerships; commissioners will be working within Ahamdiyya expected to provide value for money and For more information visit communities understand this,” added may look elsewhere to fulfill the www.homeoffice.gov.uk/ Shahina. 9 requirement. police/police-crime-commissioners/

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8 FEATURE Supporting women i Northern Ireland CUTS to funding have Making a Difference hit the police service SENIOR female officers and staff from Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), An Garda hard. Police staff have Siochona and the Northern Ireland Policing Board came together in February at a leadership been made redundant, event to support the PSNI Gender Action Plan. Organised by the PSNI Equality and Diversity officers ‘forced to Unit the ‘Making a Difference’ event aimed to retire’ under A19 encourage personal responsibility for continual professional development and leadership. regulations, overtime Speakers included: Deputy Chief Constable budgets slashed and Judith Gillespie; Naomi Long MP; Penny Holloway, now pension costs are the mother of Thomas Devlin who was murdered in North Belfast in 2005; Madeline Perry, currently increasing. But despite 3rd in the world squash rankings and William it all women’s McKee, the former chief executive of the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust. networks across the DCC Gillespie also presented certificates to the women put forward as the PSNI nominations country are working for the BAWP 2012 awards. hard to offer relevant personal and Gwent professional development Being the best you can be opportunities to A TWO-hour women’s leadership event, the first for Gwent officers and staff, has been declared a success by the force’s women’s women in policing. association. Three speakers, two from the force: Detective Superintendent Rhiannon Kirk and Professional Development Manager Alisa The events may not Quartermaine, and Sabrina Cohen-Hatton from South Wales Fire have the polish of and Rescue Service spoke at the session which ran from 4-6pm. previous years; you Each talked about their personal journey to where they are now, including the challenges they had faced, how they had overcome might have to take a setbacks, built on successes, learnt from good and bad experiences packed lunch, attend and taken control of any opportunities. Alisa, who organised the session, said: “The feedback from the on your rest days and 22 women who came along has been excellent. The inputs have the speakers may be been described as empowering, motivational and deeply thought home-grown. But provoking.” female police officers and staff are Dorset undeterred, they know Keep Calm and Carry On they are responsible for DORSET Action for Women Network (DAWN) attracted 135 women to hear Andy their own development Whittaker speak about the ‘Art of being brilliant’ and attend workshops on eating and are investing in for life, stress and resilience, positive thinking, confidence, coping themselves now so mechanisms for juggling home, work they will be best- and life, coaching and mentoring and placed to take on new sleep management. “The event, which was supported by challenges and DCC Debbie Simpson, received hugely opportunities when positive feedback, striking just the right note in the challenging times affecting they arise. the force,” said Gill Donnell, from the network.

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9 in the police service South Yorkshire Women given chance to quiz MP on family issues WOMEN attending South Yorkshire Police Women’s Network event in February were able to pose questions to The Right Honorable John Bercow, MP for Buckingham and speaker of the House of Commons. Mr Bercow had attended the event as part of a drive to encourage more women into politics, but those present used the opportunity to debate the cost of childcare, the barriers faced by some women returning to work after having children, foreign policy and recent negative media around MPs. Pictured at the event held at the force’s sports and social club: The event, which was also open to women in partner agencies and from front row (left to right): Diane Lowe, John Bercow MP, Claire community groups, also had a morning session from Diane Lowe on Sykes (event organiser). Back row (left to right): Rachel Barber women releasing their potential. (network deputy chair) Caroline Rollitt (network chair)

Suffolk and Norfolk Forces pool resources to host event

MAXIMISING personal development and achieving goals was the topic brief for speakers at a 130-strong conference jointly hosted by Suffolk and Norfolk Constabularies. Male and female staff from both forces and British Telecom were told about the importance of being in control of their own destiny from Deloitte LPP employee Dawn Lowe, while Ruth Dugdall, an ex-probation officer turned author, said hard work and commitment are the only way to achieve goals. Delegates were able to complete a self-assessment questionnaire and set a development plan as part of an input on knowing your personal strengths and weaknesses by Nicky Garcea, Consulting Director of CAPP, (leaders in strengths based assessment, development, performance and change). A lecturer in organisational behaviour and HR, Maria Watson, spoke about the importance of having a positive mindset when dealing with change. 5 £275 was raised for the Eve Appeal – a gynaecology cancer research fund.

Bedfordshire NOW Be...a success SIX workshops, facilitated by officers and staff from Bedfordshire Police, were offered to the 60 people attending the ‘Now Be…’ personal development and networking event. Staff from Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire forces flocked to the ‘Be...Confident’, ‘Be...Ready’ and ‘Be...Resilient’ sessions saying afterwards how inspirational they were. The event was organised by Bedfordshire Police’s Networking Organisation for Women (NOW). Chair Abbey Cobbett said: “Bedfordshire Police, like many forces, must adapt to the pressures brought on by the budget cuts. We wanted to use this event to provide our delegates with time to reassess their goals and gain new skills that might help them in both their personal lives and in their career.” 5 NOW has produced a video of highlights from the day, which is available on their force intranet, in a bid to showcase their work and encourage others to get involved.

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10 PEOPLE

In the SPOTLIGHT

What did you want to be when How have you achieved a satisfactory Q you were growing up? Qwork/life balance? I always wanted to be a nurse when I was a I have learned to switch off when I leave work. The child. I was advised to get a science degree last thing that those close to you want to hear is Aand qualify as a nurse after that. Personal Awhat a bad day you have had. My motto is have circumstances meant that I never got to nursing your half an hour debrief then forget work until the next school, but in my new role I am looking forward to day. I spend quality time with my kids – reading stories, Name: achieving my original ambition of helping those in helping with homework and talking. Children are so Louise Mann need. important and time invested in them is the only way to make them rounded adults able to know what life’s most Age: 41 important things are. I keep myself fit so this also helps me Who has been your greatest to increase my energy levels and enjoy time off. Current posting/role: inspiration or role model and Q why? Probationer Police What advice would you give to an Constable My father. He too was a police officer and I ambitious new officer or member have always been incredibly proud of him. Qof police staff? He had an exemplary career and made a Brief career history: A Listen to those who have done the job, but don’t be difference to many people. If I can be anywhere 1993 Chemistry degree afraid to make suggestions of your own. Policing near as professional as him I will be satisfied. He 1993-2008 Analytical really does feel like a family and families can talk to dealt with many very difficult situations and had A Chemist analysing food each other. Since I have worked for the policing family I the respect of his fellow officers. for pesticide residues. have always felt part of it and made to feel welcome. 2008 – 2011 What is the most memorable Performance and Policy What three words describe moment of your career to date? Officer for Q your personality? Cambridgeshire Police Q Authority. My recent attestation ceremony. Achieving Determined, funny and caring. that goal of standing in front of a A Amagistrate and promising to help people Family: Two children – was a fantastic honour. I had my family there to I have worked part-time support me and they were there to see me begin What are your vices? since the birth of my my new life as a police officer. All of us on the two children until I Q intake had waited a very long time to begin our joined the police force. new careers and I think we all felt very privileged Diet Coke and chocolate. Now more than ever, to be joining the police force when many forces those close to me will are not recruiting, but also at a time of great A need to support me with change. child care issues but I am Where is your favourite holiday very lucky to have What barriers to success have destination and why? wonderful back up. Q Q you come across and how did you deal with them? Italy: I love the people, the climate, and the food and It’s a long time ago now but I failed my wine are delicious. maths A-level. At the time I was devastated A Abut I managed to get a place to do a degree with my two A-level passes. When you Where do you see yourself in have a knock like that you quickly learn that time five years time? spent worrying is time wasted, you need to pick Q yourself up and think of ways to achieve your goal. Finally, at age 41, I really feel that I have found my Hopefully I will be studying for my sergeants’ true vocation. So it always turns out alright in the exams! But, I really can’t say at the moment. 9 end even if you don’t see it at the time. A

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PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT 11

Change can mean opportunity

POLICE staff across the country are facing rarely used talents? Could you arrange an It is not the an uncertain future and now Part 2 of the attachment with another unit? Could you Winsor Review has recommended chief volunteer as a school governor, Samaritan or for a strongest of constables are given the power to make local charity? You will increase your network, police officers redundant. gain new skills and have the potential of the species Chair of Bedfordshire’s Networking standing out from other applicants when that survives, Organisation for Women (NOW) Abbey applying for new roles. Cobbett has not only managed change 5 Think about your network. Work on it, nor the most processes, but has herself experienced increase it and use it when you redundancy, demotion, promotion and need to. Use coaches and intelligent, but role changes in a number of mentors to support, organisations. She says ‘change’ encourage and motivate rather the one doesn’t have to be negative and you during times of most adaptable gives five tips to deal with it. uncertainty and 5 Don’t wait for change, be vulnerability. to change pro-active. When was the last 5 Don’t be frightened. time you reviewed and We have all gone Charles Darwin updated your CV? through change in order 5 Consider where your gaps are. to be where we are today. What can you do to fill those Sometimes the path we gaps? Although training and take may not be development is limited, it is still completely straight, it available. You could also look within may not be the path your own community at what local we originally intended to colleges, partner agencies and take, and even though you surrounding forces can offer. might not think it possible 5 Consider new opportunities. Where at the time, you will come could you gain new skills, or brush up on out the other side. 9 Abbey Cobbett NIKKI IS FOURTH TIME LUCKY NORTHAMPTONSHIRE Police I wasn’t unduly concerned. I contributed to Systems Admin Manager Nikki discussions about what the department Butt has been made redundant should look like, and when the decision was three times. But she believes each made to reduce the number of supervisors, was an opportunity for her to try but expand the scope of the role, I saw it as something new, as she explains: an opportunity to develop. “I stumbled across the idea of working in But even though my presentation went an emergency control room by accident, well, my interview didn’t and I wasn’t after my second redundancy at 20. I soon offered the post. I was devastated – it was Nikki Butt discovered this was my niche, and having all I’d ever wanted to do. I decided I wanted worked hard to get there I spent my time to stay with the police and told anyone developing laterally taking different roles who would listen that: “I’ll sweep leaves if it I saw it as an for the ambulance service and two police means I can stay.” There was just one full- opportunity to develop forces. I was then made redundant for the time permanent role on the redeployment third time, but this was due to a structural register. The new role paid less and I lost change and it was soon clear there was a my shift enhancement. I thought I would role was advertised, I applied and was role earmarked for me as force control miss the shifts more than the pay, but that successful, and I took up my new post room team leader. So when structural hasn’t been the case. And it isn’t the end of before the end of my initial redundancy review came around again in 2011 my story. A short time later a manager’s notice period.” 9

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12 FEATURE Policing the police

DO YOU understand the work your us, rather than getting defensive about the It never ceases to amaze me that would-be professional standards department difficult job we all know policing is. Public special constables, officers or staff make carries out? Have you ever thought confidence in the police is crucial in a system racist and sexist comments on social network of applying to work with them? that rests on the sites and then seem BAWP committee member principle of policing by surprised when we decide Detective Superintendent Jackie consent. This confidence they are not suited to Alexander has spent the past year depends on officers and policing. Vetting at higher running Nottinghamshire Police’s staff demonstrating the levels might also include professional standards directorate highest level of personal an assessment of a which has prompted her to urge and professional person’s finances and others to follow her lead and standards of behaviour. whether they could be at consider such a department for their Mistakes will happen, risk of indebtedness or next career move. and we must respond to even corruption. This can “What an interesting year it has been, in them in a timely, be a sensitive issue, but in fact, probably one of the most interesting, proportionate and the current economic challenging, and satisfying in my career to appropriate manner. The climate more and more date. When I was first posted to the IPCC clearly sets out Detective officers and staff are likely professional standards directorate I was a how public complaints Superintendent to face financial challenges Jackie Alexander little surprised. I had no particular expertise should be dealt with; and it is something we and only limited knowledge of the and remind us that ‘with need to be more open complaints system and police regulations. power … comes about. If a potential debt However, one thing I have learned over the responsibility, and when I believe if issue is identified we years, both from working in the police and that power is alleged to you leap, the net ensure the person is aware attending BAWP events, is that the most have been abused there of it and then offer support unexpected and unsought after opportunities must be the opportunity will appear on how to manage it. can prove the most fulfilling. In fact I believe for redress’. This ‘redress’ The complaints and ‘if you leap, the net will appear’. My ‘net’ has is something I appreciate misconduct and anti- many parts: a small, but immensely can be of real concern to officers and staff corruption referrals can be very routine, or committed and professional team; a who have had a complaint made against equally almost incredible. Organisational knowledgeable and helpful legal services unit them. vulnerabilities are recognised nationally to and strong links with those we work with As departmental head I am responsible for include infiltration by organised crime gangs, from senior colleagues to external partners in three key units: vetting and information criminal association, drug and alcohol abuse the Independent Police Complaints security, complaints and misconduct and the and inappropriate sexual conduct. You have Commission (IPCC) and the Crown anti-corruption unit. The vetting and to be open-minded about what a colleague Prosecution Service. information security unit is comprised wholly could have done; the day a force doesn’t I have discovered the most important of police staff. The work they do is integral to believe an officer or staff member ‘could do skill to have in professional standards the force’s reputation and security. The such a thing’ is the day the integrity of UK department is the ability to consider checks on potential new recruits, for example, policing will be diminished. objectively the matters the public raise with include looking at open social network sites. Ensuring police information is only

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13

The IPCC clearly sets out how public complaints should be dealt with; and remind us that ‘with power … comes responsibility’

done this. But their shock quickly turned to Independent I think the work anger as the evidence against him was uncovered. For me this was a very satisfying Police Complaints of professional standards investigation as I was able to draw on my Commission department is often previous experience as head of public protection and use the skills I had learned from a post The IPCC was created by the Police misunderstood and graduate certificate in forensic psychology, Reform Act 2002 with the primary specialising in sex offenders. I had completed purpose of increasing public misrepresented. It has a the course just weeks before the case came in confidence in the police complaints key role to play to ensure and being able to put that specific learning into system. Police forces deal with the practice was a revelation. It was clear that he vast majority of complaints against we are all proud of the had groomed everyone around him including officers and staff, however, the IPCC his own family, colleagues, friends and other oversees the complaints system forces we work for professionals, in order to sexually offend against and sets the standards by which the girl. It was pleasing to see how the judge the police must deal with saw right through him – he certainly did not complaints. In 2010/11 33,099 accessed for a policing purpose is an area I am groom her. compliant cases were recorded, focusing on with the launch of what I have During my first year I have also had to review containing 59,442 allegations. called my ‘Think B4U Click!’ campaign. Many the department and, like many others, submit a Three-quarters of complaints were people working in the police are naturally business plan to manage this area effectively on against men, a quarter were against ‘nosey’ and, for example, may be tempted to a reduced budget. I have had to say goodbye to women. find out more about what is happening where good officers and staff in the process. It has they live. But such access, unless directly linked made me realise how important it is that forces Five types of complaint account to their specific role, is at least inappropriate, have processes in place to ensure the officers for 69 per cent of all complaints and often unlawful. Our systems hold so much and staff they employ are working to the recorded: information to help us do our job properly, but required standard and delivering a good service. we have a legal duty to access it only for that Poor practice and unsatisfactory performance 5 neglect and failure in duty purpose. needs to be identified at the earliest (27 per cent) The most notable operation I have overseen opportunity and corrected, and those found 5 incivility, impoliteness and in the past year was the prosecution of an guilty of gross misconduct do need to be intolerance (18 per cent) officer who we charged with five counts of dismissed. 5 other assault (12 per cent) sexual activity with a 13-year-old girl. He I think the work of professional standards 5 oppressive conduct and resigned during the early stages of our department is often misunderstood and harassment (7 per cent) investigation, received a six-year prison misrepresented. It has a key role to play to 5 unlawful/unnecessary detention sentence and was placed on the sex offenders’ ensure we are all proud of the forces we work (5 per cent) register. Our investigation found him to be a for. So if you have never considered it before, sexual predator who groomed his young victim I would encourage you to think about Around 11 per cent of allegations over a number of months. Many of his professional standards as a specialism and your were upheld. colleagues were shocked that he could have next career move.” 9

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14 NEWS

Camels, deserts and policing

RETIRED superintendent and BAWP member Rita and goats, creating a bit of a traffic hazard especially at night. Tucker has been working in the United Arab Emirates The Emiratee police officers (both male and female) in Umm Al (UAE) for the past three years as a strategic adviser Quwainn are among the best that I have ever worked with. Women for policing. Here she gives a snapshot of what it’s like are highly respected and treated as equals in this society. The to swop her HMIC inspection job, London and its policewomen in Umm Al Quwainn can pursue Masters level degree cyclists for the desert roads and free roaming camels. programmes combined with their daily police roles and are “I work under the direction of the United Arab Emirates Federal supported by the organisation to achieve their full potential. Government Strategy Department who are currently It is my job to work with these officers providing support and implementing a strategic change programme across all guidance on criminal justice management, custody, inspection, departments within the Ministry of Interior. I am based in the performance and policing style. I am supported by strategic Emirate of Sharjah, just north of Dubai with my seven male advisers for community policing, colleagues who are all former senior British police officers. We traffic, CID and intelligence. We provide strategic and tactical police advice to the five lesser-known meet daily with the action Emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates – Sharjah, Ajman, teams managing each of Umm Al Quwainn, Fujairah and Ras Al Khamiah. I have geographic the themed initiatives. My responsibility for the Emirate of Umm Al Quwainn, but I also working life is made advise on inspection issues when requested to by my colleagues easier by the support I in the other Emirates. get from a team of Umm Al Quwainn is approximately 60 kilometres north of interpreters who Dubai and is probably the least developed of all the Emirates. It is translate for me when the unspoilt and rich in natural beauty with a fantastic coastline Emiratee officers are dotted with islands and a rich marine unsure of my accent, or life that is designated of special don’t feel comfortable scientific interest. speaking English even though I have an office at General they can. Headquarters (GHQ), which houses all It is great being at the forefront the headquarters departments, and at of change in this relatively new Al Madina (which means city centre in nation – the state celebrated its Arabic) Police Station which is the 40th anniversary last December – main operation base for the city police. but what makes it so enjoyable is On a typical day I travel 80 kilometres the people. Emiratees have a from home in ultra modern Dubai to keen sense of humour and fun Umm Al Quwainn through densely despite being a very conservative populated Sharjah to the deserts of society, and of course there is Umm Al Quwainn. Camels roam freely no shortage of visitors from on the roads here, along with donkeys Rita (right) with Huda a community police officer the UK.” 9 Senior women’s training delivered to Albanian officers NPIA trainers Chief Super- t The women spent the week developing intendent Alison Richardson and both personally and professionally through sessions on personal performance and Diane Lowe have been helping interpersonal styles, critical incident Albanian policewomen develop management and conflict resolution their personal and professional leadership skills. female deputy director general (equivalent The pair travelled to Tirana, Albania to to deputy chief constable) is now in post deliver the week-long Senior Positive and much work is under way to improve Action Leadership Course to 16 female female representation. 9 English-speaking officers last month change programme and is trying to improve (February). female representation in all areas,”says The ‘Moving on!’ Senior Positive “The country’s policewomen have Diane Lowe. Action Leadership Course is still historically had office-based roles, but the Women currently make up two per cent being run in the UK. Find details police service is going through a radical of the country’s 10,000 officers. However a www.npia.police.uk/

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NEWS 15

First conference Scholarship to UK helps shape for women in Gulf States future of Lebanese policewomen FOUR BAWP committee members flew to the United Arab Emirates in A LEBANESE policewoman February to attend the who is helping her force Emirates Women Police recruit 1,200 female Association’s first Women officers by March 2012 in Policing Conference. has been learning more President of IAWP Jane about women in policing Townsley, BAWP vice on a two-week president Ellie Bird, Carol scholarship to the UK. Thomas and IAWP Region 13 Major Suzann el Hajj, who was co-ordinator Julia Jaeger had Lebanon’s first female officer, been invited to Abu Dhabi to was awarded a fellowship from share their experiences of the John Smith Memorial Trust. setting up and working within The charity seeks to promote staff associations. Both Jane social justice and good and Ellie spoke at the 1,000 governance in countries that are strong event which was in the process of developing their attended by policing own models of democracy, but representatives from across are interested in lessons from the the Gulf States. British experience. Jane told delegates: “Being The money funded Suzann’s a police officer is a unique and trip to the UK in November last challenging role and though year to research an action plan the countries in which we to ensure work may be very different, women we have all lived and worked are fully through experiences that have integrated into shaped us into the officers we Lebanon’s are today. It is by sharing Major Suzann el Hajj police force, what we have learned we can the Internal harassment The meetings also inspired her to become better police Security Force. and bullying come with an idea to set up a officers.” The ISF, as it for example.” RED police bureau, as she Ellie charted BAWP’s 20- is dubbed, was During her explains: “This bureau would year journey and explained: created in two-week mainstream ‘Rights, Equality and “Maximising the contribution 1953 and is stay Suzann Diversity’ standards within the that women can make in policing is not about seeking still using the was keen to police and ensure that the police power, excluding others or original ‘rights find out how viewpoints and interests are alienating women from men. for staff’ she could relayed to the government.” It is about finding more drafted upon Suzann met Parwinder Dale while ensure the Upon her return to Lebanon in London effective solutions to its inception – newly Suzann became the head of the problems, being innovative something which Suzann says recruited women – they received academic institution for the and being inclusive; has proved a challenge. 11,000 applications for the 1,200 female cadets. encouraging people within “How can I ask the policemen roles – would be able to work in “So I’m now implementing my our communities to be a part or women to treat people within the field and be treated equally ideas. I’m drafting a Gender of the solution and shaping acceptable human rights by their male counterparts. She Agenda for our female officers the future.” standards if they themselves are met up with colleagues from the and I am putting what I learned The conference was not treated with the same Metropolitan and British in the UK into practice. Also, I supported by His Highness standards. In the same vein how Transport Police, NPIA and Police am working with the planning Lieutenant General Sheikh can I ensure a successful Federation, Hertfordshire’s DCC department in ISF to implement Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, integration of women into the Heather Valentine and BAWP’s my ‘RED Bureau’ police project UAE Deputy Prime Minister force without having a Gender Parwinder Dale and many others within the ISF structure to and Minister of Interior. 9 Agenda or handbooks dealing who she said “helped me improve our policing and police with equality and diversity or immensely to widen my views”. conditions.” 9

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16 COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Jackie Alexander, Nottinghamshire Gill Donnell, Dorset (retired) Tracey Moynihan, Metropolitan Carol Thomas, Surrey jackie.alexander@nottinghamshire [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]. pnn.police.uk police.uk Marisa Firkin, SOCA Nicky Phillipson, Grapevine Ellie Bird, Vice President, British Assistant Editor [email protected] Susan Thomson, Thames Valley Transport Police [email protected] [email protected] susan.thomson@thamesvalley. Patricia Foy, CBRN pnn.police.uk Debi Potter, Dorset Vera Bloor, Staffordshire (retired) patricia.foy- [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Jane Townsley, British Sarah Shrubshall, Suffolk Transport Police Mandy Chapman, Metropolitan Felicity Hurst, SOCA [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] police.uk Parwinder Dale, National Robyn Williams, Metropolitan Julia Jaeger (retired) Co-ordinator Barbara Spooner, SOCA [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Carolyn Williamson, Secretary Cressida Dick, President Kim Madill, Grapevine Editor Pippa Taylor, Treasurer [email protected] [email protected] k.madill@west- p.a.taylor@west- midlands.pnn.police.uk midlands.pnn.police.uk Sarah Dimmock, Cumbria Angela Wilson, Tayside [email protected]. Denise Milani, Metropolitan Fay Tennet, Northamptonshire [email protected]. police.uk [email protected] [email protected] police.uk

How to become a member of BAWP For further information contact: CAROLYN WILLIAMSON, Secretary, BAWP, PO Box 999, Bordon, GU35 5AQ. Tel: 0844 414 0448 • Fax: 0844 414 0448 • E-mail: [email protected] • Website: www.bawp.org

5 You can attend national and regional training days and social events. • We can link you to other police professionals in this country and abroad. 5 We can enable you to share your expertise or specialist knowledge with others. • We have a ready-made network for work-related and social contacts. • We can keep you informed of training opportunities and conferences. • We can help your voice be heard in matters affecting women in the police service. • You will receive regular copies of this magazine.

Membership details Full membership is open to all officers and police staff, female and male, serving in the UK, along with retired officers. Associate membership is open to anyone with a professional interest in criminal justice. Corporate membership is now available for £350 p.a. Please contact BAWP Secretary Carolyn Williamson for more details, or join and pay online via www.bawp.org or complete the form below and send it with your payment to: BAWP, PO Box 999, Bordon, GU35 5AQ.

Name: Rank/Title: Address: Postcode: Country: Tel: Mobile: E-mail: Force/Organisation: Station/Dept: Type of work (if not police):

5 Membership type (circle one) FULL/ASSOCIATE • Membership term (circle one) £25 for one year/£60 for three years I believe I am eligible to join, and enclose a cheque payable to ‘BAWP’. (If for any reason, your application is not accepted, the fee will, of course, be refunded in full.)

Signed: Date: SPR2012

GRAPEVINE Spring 2012