Firstbeat - spring 2017

FIRSTBEAT

YOUR MAGAZINE, YOUR NEWS

Spring 2017 ISSUE 51

Lights, camera, action A cop’s eye view of policing with a crew from “999: What’s your Emergency?” in tow

We’re well into

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOUR HEALTH www.wiltshire.police.uk

Five-page special starts on page 26

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LETTERS

Dear Chief Constable...

People helped by our officers and staff often write to thank the chief constable for the great service they have received. Here’s a small selection of letters from grateful members of the public.

‘I’LL NEVER FORGET HER KINDNESS AND PATIENCE’

from Chippenham – Paul Brewster and Elliot Alvis – attended the house. The care, professionalism and attention shown to the family can only be described as exemplary.

Please pass on the family’s thanks to the officers.

Thank you for the way your officers conducted an investigation into my young granddaughter’s disclosure to me that she was being sexually abused by her mother’s partner.

I was shocked and horrified and felt out of my depth. Det Sgt Catherine Kirkham explained clearly what needed to be done to protect my granddaughter and other little girls from further abuse. From that moment we all felt confident she would do everything in her power to help us to keep our granddaughter safe. Det Sgt Kirkham was calm, efficient and professional at all times.

Thank you for employing such dedicated and highly trained staff. She is a credit to the Force and I will never forget her kindness and patience which helped the whole family to cope. It is amazing that she is able to retain her integrity and remain so positive when she daily has to face the dark side of humanity.

PC’S HUMANITY AND PROFESSIONALISM It is six months since my dear wife died as a result of a collision with a lorry on the A36. My family and I remain in shock. She was a wonderful woman.

SWIFT ACTION KEPT ME SAFE May I offer sincere thanks for the help I received from PCs Ian Thackray and Alan Cromwell and Martin Batchelor (retd). I was on the A303 when the clutch failed. I was in the middle lane approaching the Countess roundabout and in a very dangerous position. The AA called Wiltshire Police and within 15 minutes help arrived.

Cones and danger signs were put out and traffic was diverted so my car could be towed to safety. The officers were very professional and competent and showed great concern for my safety.

EXEMPLARY CARE AND PROFESSIONALISM A dear friend passed away at home after a long battle with cancer. Two police officers

My mind is plagued by thoughts of that traumatic scene which PC Philip Artingstall and other kind witnesses had to cope with.

It was only at the inquest I learned that PC Artingstall was the unsung hero of the day.

I would like to thank PC Artingstall from the bottom of my heart for his humanity and professionalism. Knowing all that could be done to save my wife was done gives me great comfort.

Dear reader, IN this special spring issue of Firstbeat, we’ve devoted five pages - including our back cover - to mark the launch of a new wellness zone which will offer useful advice for all of us on how to look after both mind and body.

There’s advice on healthy eating and we bring you some interesting findings from the recent “pulse” survey of officers and staff. The special begins on page 26. As a result, Tweetbeat is taking a break until the summer issue.

We report on three new support groups being set up to help officers and staff dealing with cancer, having a baby and the menopause.

PC Joe Tompkinson, of the Swindon North Community Policing Team, writes about his experience of having a film crew from “999: What’s Your Emergency?” riding along. You

can find out more on pages 14 and 15.

We’re celebrating the latest Force awards recipients over three pages, starting on page 11, and meeting the Continuous Improvement team on pages 16 and 17 as they embark on a review of Community Policing. Discover what their favourite question is … and how many times they ask it.

The Specials are in the spotlight on pages 20 and 21.

Simone Matthews has been talking to Rachel Oaten about her role as a Special Inspector … and her day job in A&E. We’ve coverage of the annual day to remember PC Mike Lawless (Page 23) and we meet PC Sian Wilson from Trowbridge CPT Team One and discover why it’s best not to mess with her (see pages 24 - 25).

WHAT’S INSIDE NEWS

Please thank all involved in the recent PCSO events for public service students at the Wiltshire College campuses (Trowbridge, Lackham and Salisbury). The team, led by Barbara Masters, was well-prepared and knowledgeable. Our students felt they benefited from the various activities. The event has opened their eyes to the employment opportunities in Wiltshire Police.

REUNITED WITH MY PRECIOUS PICTURES

THESE TWO PCSOs WERE DELIGHTFUL

A friend called to say they thought the camera I lost months earlier may have been handed in at Gablecross. The next day I drove to Gablecross and was astounded to find it was mine as I did not think I would see it again, or the precious pictures I had taken.

Enquiry officer Joe Beattie, and the rest of the reception team, had thoughtfully put a message on social media asking if anyone knew who the camera might belong to. If it had not been for them, my camera could still be in the lost property box.

DIDN’T THEY DO WELL

16-17

THE TEAM THAT BELIEVES IN BETTER

18-19

BRIDGING THE DIVERSITY GAP

20-21

MEET THE SPECIAL COP FROM CASUALTY

24-25

DON’T MESS WITH SIAN

26-30

FIVE-PAGE WELLNESS SPECIAL

IN FOCUS

I would like to thank PCSOs Elizabeth Duncan (pictured below) and Sarah Moth who came to my aid when I ended up lost in my PCSO Elizabeth Duncan with the elderly motorist car down a dirt track in a wood. They turned what could have been a rather tiresome afternoon into a positive pleasure. They

11-13

IN FOCUS

and the surroundings (near Lucknam Park) were delightful.

IN FOCUS

AN EYE OPENER FOR OUR STUDENTS

LIFE

And there’s much more besides. Hope you enjoy it.

Ben and Paul, joint editors

WELLNESS

SH ILT IR

E

Editors: Ben Holloway and Paul Deal

W

firstbeat editorial team Sub editor: Laurie Farquhar Designer: Natalie Hobman Front cover photo: PC Joe Tompkinson with “999: What’s Your Emergency” crew

by Ben Tompkinson

PO

LICE

Email: firstbeat@wiltshire.pnn.police.uk

NEWS

PCSO awarded for going the extra mile

PC Anne Loveys with PC Sonya McIntyre and Wadworth Horseman Callum Whittle

ONE of our PCSOs has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to the welfare and wellbeing of his local community.

PCSO Mark Cook, who is based in Calne, was presented with a civic award from Calne Town Council in March.

POLICING ON THE HOOF PCSO Cook was nominated for the award by a resident who praised him for his proactive engagement with the local CCTV manager, and his use of social media to provide the community with information – often in his spare time.

Mark, who has been a PCSO for just over 11 years, with five years spent in Calne, said:

It is really nice when your work is recognised like this, but I’m just doing a job I love.

I can honestly say that I have enjoyed every shift in Calne over the past five years. I am extremely proud to be able to serve the town where I grew up, and to be able to give something back to Calne each day.

POLICING is a serious business, but once in a while it’s good to show the public that we do have a sense of humour.

Not wishing to be left out, we joined in the April Fool’s day of hoaxes and general japery, issuing a release stating that we will be ‘working with the Wadworth team to begin training a mounted police officer unit as part of a new horse share initiative.’

Using police budget cuts and a need to save money as the drive behind the initiative, the release was littered with prank-filled puns: “This move will give us unbridled capability to tackle crime in our communities,” with Devizes Community Policing Team Inspector, Nick Mawson, saying: “I know there will be some neigh-sayers that will say this won’t work, but we are confident with careful management this will be one of our mane crime prevention techniques.

out in the community. Supporting our local police force with this venture gives them the opportunity to get out more, meet and help local people in their time of need and rein in those criminals who stirrup trouble in our communities.”

The corporate communications team, which was behind the April Fool’s stunt, used our social media channels to announce ‘the re-introduction of a mounted police unit to Wiltshire’. A short video and photos brought the story to life, resulting in a total Facebook reach of 270.7k, 1416 likes, 535 shares and 205 comments.

Twitter reached 432.6k, with 224 likes, 79 retweets and 20 replies. The feedback from the public was great with many commenting they wished it were true.

Local radio station SAM FM completely fell for it, running the story a day late on Sunday 2 April.

“We want criminals to know that when they fall foal of the law we won’t be horsing around trotting out the traditional tactics they are used to seeing.”

PC Anne Loveys and PC Sonya McIntyre visited Wadworth’s stables for a quick photo shoot with the three huge Wadworth shire horses Max, Monty, Archie and their dray, which was given the call-sign ‘Dray-Z’.

Wadworth were great sports, saying: “Our three shire horses are very sociable and love being PC Anne Loveys on Police shire horse Monty saying hello to PC Sonya McIntyre

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NEWS

Stepping in when people flee abroad – why it’s more important to listen than it is to talk When someone decides to flee the safety of their family home to travel or attempt to travel to a conflict zone abroad, the devastation and disruption they leave behind can be catastrophic.

KATIE BOND Media Officer

IN such times of desperation for a family, it is the responsibility of a police Prevent Contact Officer (PCO) to talk frankly and openly to them – from the initial shock that their loved one has expressed an interest in travelling to places like Syria, to the anger and sheer disbelief that they may never see them again.

“At times like this, it’s more important to listen than it is to talk,” said newly qualified PCO Chris Hams, pictured right, who is also the Prevent lead for Wiltshire Police.

“It’s important to be sensitive to how people are feeling, be open and transparent about their expectations, but also try and gently glean information from them about their loved one and whether or not there may be other family members who may be influenced by that person’s decision and beliefs.”

Chris, who recently completed a weeklong course at the South East Counter Terrorism Unit to qualify as the only PCO within Wiltshire Police, could be called upon to carry out the role anywhere in the country.

The purpose of the PCO is to identify vulnerabilities within family members which may lead them to accepting an extremist rhetoric, or identify family members who may follow the same pathway to extremism. But they may also be required to signpost the family to partner agencies, depending on the support they require.

“We work closely with our partner agencies including the local authorities, health partners, educational establishments and non-counter terrorism policing partners including local Community Policing Teams.

“Although it’s not a Family Liaison Officer (FLO) role, it’s quite similar in terms of sensitivities and how you deal with the families,” said Chris.

“In a similar way to a FLO, you are dealing with families who are coming to terms with a loss of some kind, whether they’ve travelled to fight with Daesh or against them. It could also include young vulnerable females who have been promised an ideal, perfect lifestyle if they travel to a conflict zone – this couldn’t be further from the truth.”

“Once these people decide to travel and leave the country, it is very rare that they are able to return.”

As well as his new responsibility as a PCO, Chris also recently trained as a Counter Terrorism FLO, which means he could be placed within the families of those who have tragically lost loved ones in a terrorist incident like the recent events in Westminster.

Spring 2017 | Page 5

NEWS

Young ones voice concern about cyber crime Young people form the future of our communities. The first Wiltshire Youth Summit provided our county’s youth with the opportunity to express their views and opinions on what matters most to them.

fantastic event which allowed us to speak to some of Wiltshire’s young people, discuss the issues that they feel matter most to them and learn about how we can engage with them more effectively in the future.

SHEA D’ARCY

“It’s clear that young people believe we can better engage with them on social media and we’ll assess our social media platforms to see whether they are in line with what young people are currently using.

Communications Officer

YOUNG people from across Wiltshire gathered recently to meet representatives from Wiltshire Police and other service providers at the first WiltshireYouth Summit.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon Angus Macpherson and Assistant Chief Constable Kier Pritchard joined Wiltshire Police’s Youth Engagement Team at the event which was held at Devizes School.

Throughout the day young people took part in a number of activities designed to teach them more about what it’s like to police the area and they were able to voice their thoughts, ideas and concerns around policing priorities in the county.

Page 6 | Spring 2017

During the sessions it became clear that cyber-crime and the desire for police to engage better with young people through social media were the main priorities.

Mr Macpherson said: “It has been really good to hear young people’s views on the service they receive from Wiltshire Police.

“Talking with the young people has highlighted some of the issues they are facing in their lives, including the risks around social media and cyber-crime.

“It is important that the police don’t judge a book by its cover. Young people make a valuable contribution to our communities and we need to get to know them better, understand the issues they face and be ready to listen to their concerns.”

ACC Kier Pritchard, speaking after the event, said: “The Youth Summit was a

“Another important issue which arose from the panel discussion was cyber-crime.

This is an area that we are committed to tackling further, and the views that the young people expressed will help us to educate, and engage, with young people across the county.”

The event, organised in partnership with a number of agencies, was a success with key decision makers from across the county leaving with a new perspective and new ideas from the young people that will help form the future of our communities.

NEWS

BEN HOLLOWAY

Communications and Digital Channel Manager

CHILDREN throughout Wiltshire have been putting themselves in police officers’ shoes for a day in a special competition run by us.

As part of a month-long campaign focusing on young people and policing, we asked primary school children either to write a story or draw a picture on the theme of My Day in the Police.

Schools across Wiltshire rose to the challenge and sent us some excellent and imaginative work, featuring stakeouts, thieves being arrested and suspects being interviewed.

The entries offered some interesting insights into police work, with one talking about the importance of relying on your team to make sure the right bad guy was caught, and another explaining how to keep your uniform nice and neat.

Some referred to police paperwork and collecting evidence, and, for one child, the “best part of the job” – meeting lots of people and being able to help them.

drew some wonderfully colourful pictures of police cars, but also learned how to lift fingerprints and transfer them to card.

But the winner was Ash Class, from St Mark’s Church of England Junior School in Salisbury, which sent us a wonderful and varied collection of stories, posters and cartoon strips of police officers chasing baddies, hurrying around in police cars and even rounding up escaped cows.

The class, whose teacher is Helen Fiddy, wins a visit by our officers, as well as having its work featured on these pages.

Many thanks to all the schools involved.

We received so many brilliant entries it was hard to decide on a winner.

Special mentions go to Thomas, aged nine, from Holbrook Primary School in Trowbridge, with his poster reminding people that “Police officers are your friends. Their job is to help keep you safe” and to Treetops class from Southbroom Infants in Devizes, which not only

Spring 2017 | Page 7

NEWS

SAM HOWLETT

Communications Officer

OVER the last three months, Chief Constable Mike Veale has spent more than 90 hours meeting police staff, officers and volunteers at roadshows across the county.

“It’s up to me to set a direction for the Force,” said Mr. Veale. “I need to be clear on our vision, what I expect from my staff and volunteers and what they can expect from me and the organisation.

“I needed to take this time to meet with everybody face to face and discuss this with them; the messages I have delivered needed to be clear and direct.”

During the roadshows, the Chief discussed the changing police landscape and the challenges presented by tackling increasing demand with fewer resources.

The Chief also spoke at length about what the Force needed to do, not only to deal with the demand it faces, but also to become a ‘world-class organisation.’

He said: “I’ve made it clear throughout the roadshows, we will be a values-based organisation. If we get that right, the rest will follow.

Page 8 | Spring 2017

LIFE ON THE ROAD

“We need to eradicate the blame culture and risk aversion that lies within the organisation. My staff and officers need to know that if they do the right thing, using the National Decision Model, in line with our values and behaviours then they will have my full, complete and unequivocal support.

“Another big area of focus for me is the health and wellbeing of our workplace.

“The policing landscape we face today is far different to years gone by; we face an increasing demand with fewer people so it’s important that the organisation offers the right support so people stay fit and well for work.”

Over the course of the roadshows the Chief Constable also spoke in detail about the importance of embracing equality, diversity and inclusion.

“We need to look through a different set of lenses,” said the Chief.

“When we are able to recognise, appreciate and celebrate what makes us different it is clear to see that whoever you are, wherever you’re from, whatever your beliefs, whatever disposition you may have and whatever your ability: everyone can make a difference.”

The roadshows were attended by staff, officers and volunteers across the county and were well received, with many glad to have taken the opportunity to take part in an open and honest discussion about the future of the Force.

With the roadshows now over, work has already begun on the feedback that people provided, with wellness a particular focus. You can find out more in our fivepage special at the back of this issue.

NEWS

VICTIM COMMENDED FOR COMING FORWARD

PRISON FOR ATTACKER WITH BASEBALL BAT A 37-year-old man from Bristol, Cristiano Quizado Reami, has been sentenced to four and a half years imprisonment for attempted grievous bodily harm and actual bodily harm.

In April last year, two men called police after they heard a woman’s screams coming from a vehicle in Atworth Close, Swindon as they were passing by.

The pair rushed to her aid, but during their attempts to help they were also assaulted. One of the men, a 36-year-old from Swindon, was assaulted with a baseball bat, while the second, a 35-year-old, also from Swindon, sustained three stab wounds.

Det Con Mike Armishaw said: “These two men showed great bravery and courage to step in and try and help before officers arrived at the scene.

They acted quickly and courageously during a violent incident, regardless of their own safety.

“Although one of the men sustained three stab wounds when he slipped and fell to the ground during the attack, he was lucky to escape with only minor injuries.”

In spite of pleading not guilty to the charge, Reami was found guilty by a jury and sentenced at Swindon Crown Court at the end of March.

SEX OFFENDER CONVICTED AFTER 14-YEAR STRUGGLE TO EXTRADITE A Salisbury man was sentenced to sixand-a-half years in March after admitting to sexually assaulting a girl who was aged under ten.

The investigation into Alan MacDonald, aka Alan Keenan, aged 65, began in 2002; MacDonald was arrested and charged with the offences but in order to avoid facing trial he left the country in 2003, two weeks before the proceedings were due to start.

Several applications were made to force him to return to the UK over the following years. However it was only last year that the process was successfully

completed and MacDonald was extradited from New Zealand in 2016.

Det Chief Insp Jeremy Carter said: “Alan MacDonald sexually assaulted a young girl in 1998 and knew that he would be convicted so left the country in a bid to avoid taking responsibility for his actions.

“MacDonald thought that he could continue to evade capture and the punishment he rightfully deserved. My team was absolutely determined to ensure that he was returned to the UK and put before the courts.”

EDWARD Jukes, 79, from Warminster, was sentenced to two years imprisonment for sexual activity with a child.

Jukes was previously found guilty of sexually assaulting a vulnerable 14 year old girl in June 2015 at an address in Warminster.

He will be on the sex offenders register for ten years and a restraining order was also put in place.

Det Con Nick Ryan said: “We are pleased with the decision of the court and hope that the victim and her family feel some comfort that the legal process has now come to an end. We commend the young victim in this case for her bravery in coming forward and throughout the judicial process which has been very difficult and stressful for her and the rest of her family.”

SWINDON SOUTH CPT WELCOMES RESULT SWINDON South Community Policing Team (CPT) has welcomed the jailing of a man for supplying drugs in Swindon.

Ali Mohamad, from London, was sentenced at Swindon Crown Court to two years and eight months.

It followed a police search of a house in County Road which uncovered wraps of heroin and crack cocaine along with cannabis and over £1,000 in cash, two air rifles and two Samurai swords.

Mohamad pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, supplying Class A drugs and acquiring criminal property.

PC Luke Atkinson said: “This is a great result, thanks to the hard work of the Swindon South CPT and sends out the message that we will always act on intelligence from the local community and will continue to robustly deal with those engaged in the supply of drugs on our streets.”

Spring 2017 | Page 9

NEWS

Tackling rural crime in a 94% rural county PC Marc Jackson

Operational lead for rural crime

“With the Rural Crime Partnership I support Community Policing Teams and gle provide them with a sin al rur ess acc point of contact to wledge. crime resources and kno cerns of “Understanding the con helps me es niti mu com al agricultur e types crim to concentrate on the Issues m. the ect aff which they feel inal crim or g rsin cou re such as ha ger lar the in damage to crops may d ere sid con be scheme of policing ve ssi ma a ve ha t bu fairly trivial, l impact on financial and emotiona nities. mu the agricultural com lligence “I also look to gather inte tions era op d ne so that pre-plan t rural rup dis to yed plo can be em lp of he criminality, often with the and es niti mu com the local farming .” ces for lice po neighbouring KAT FLEET

Communications Officer

WILTSHIRE is predominantly rural and its large geographical area can present challenges for policing. Rural crime can have a huge impact on local people and businesses and is one of the reasons Wiltshire’s Rural Crime Partnership was formed late last year.

The Rural Crime Partnership is made up of representatives from a number of organisations with a vested interest in tackling rural crime in the county, from the Ministry of Defence and Environment Agency to the National Farmers Union.

It brings local intelligence together in one place to help leaders make better and more informed decisions about preventing, reducing and combating rural criminality.

The partnership is chaired by Head of Crime Prevention Superintendent Phil Staynings, but is not explicitly a ‘police

Page 10 | Spring 2017

meeting’. Its aim is to ensure that every opportunity is seized to maximise the effect and reach of crime prevention in rural locations.

Supt Phil Staynings said: “As Head of Crime Prevention for Wiltshire Police it is really encouraging to see such a joined up approach to rural crime.

“This new partnership will help improve confidence for those living within rural communities in Wiltshire and encourage people to report crime, reassured in the knowledge that we will act on all information.”

Wiltshire Police’s Rural Crime Team was recently praised in the House of Commons with recognition from Salisbury MP John Glen. During a debate about rural policing and hare coursing, he told fellow MPs:

MEMBERS of the Rural Crime Partnership board include representatives from the Rural Crime Team, Community Policing Team, the Special Constabulary, the Crown Prosecution Service, the National Farmers Union, the Country Landowners Association, the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation, the Ministry of Defence, the Angling Trust, Trading Standards, Wiltshire Council, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, the Environment Agency, Wiltshire College, Wiltshire Museum and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon.

“I pay tribute to Wiltshire Police force.

Its officers do very difficult work in challenging circumstances, and they should be commended for the innovative steps that they are taking to improve their response to rural crime.

“Wiltshire Police have put in place a number of initiatives, including funding six dedicated wildlife crime officers, and I welcome the news that further funding has been secured to train another five.”

The Rural Crime Partnership defines rural crime as: “crime that specifically targets and exploits agriculture, wildlife, the environment and heritage”.

Chief Constable and PCC salute our award winners HANNAH BARCLAY

Communications Officer

TWENTY four award recipients - officers, staff, specials, members of the public and Police Dog Fozzy - received awards from Chief Constable Mike Veale and Lord Lieutenant Sarah Troughton at our first Force Awards of 2017.

NEWS

ENDEAVOUR AND RESILIENCE OF OFFICERS BRINGS HISTORIC SEX OFFENDERS TO JUSTICE

Det Con Janet Thomas (left) and Det Sgt Claire Smith

Mr Veale said: “I’m delighted I’ve had a chance to say thank you for the outstanding contribution to the Force and to our public, and also show appreciation to friends, family and loved ones who provide such support.

“Award ceremonies remind us that policing isn’t just a job, it’s a way of life and I am incredibly proud of everyone involved. It’s absolutely brilliant to also recognise the amazing actions of our members of the public.”

Angus Macpherson, Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, said: “I never fail to be inspired and uplifted by the stories of courage, dedication and determination told at our Force Awards.

“When two members of our volunteer Special Constabulary place themselves in harm’s way to bring an alleged violent offender into custody, then I am particularly humbled and grateful.

“Apprehending a suspect who had allegedly been involved in a knife incident, with no thought for their own safety, was in the finest traditions of the police service. I salute them both.”

A minute’s silence was observed in memory of PC Keith Palmer and the other victims of the Westminster attack.

Courtesy of Dominic Parkes Photography

Det Con Janet Thomas and Det Sgt Claire Smith CLAIRE Smith and Janet Thomas were recognised for their investigative skills, endeavour and resilience in pursuing two cases of historic sex offences.

Both received the Chief Constable’s Certificate of Excellence.

Det Sgt Smith’s case began in 2013 following reports of sexual abuse by a man, involving three victims, dating back to the 1990s.

In the mid 90s two victims reported that they were being abused by the offender, but the case was discontinued. In 2013 a third victim came forward and alleged sexual abuse.

Det Sgt Smith reviewed and reinvestigated the original allegations and looked to secure charges.

This case was particularly difficult, not only due to the vulnerability of the victims but because two had made allegations many years ago and had little faith in the police and justice system.

Det Sgt Smith established an invaluable relationship with them, providing support which undoubtedly gave them the courage and confidence to stand in court and give evidence.

The awards took place at Cumberwell Park Golf Club

Historic sexual offences can be difficult to investigate due to forensic evidence being non-existent. However, Det Sgt Smith thoroughly investigated all other lines of enquiry to prepare a case with a realistic chance of prosecution.

Following a trial at Swindon Crown Court in September 2016, Ryan Williams, formerly known as Lewis Hopkins, was found guilty of seven counts of historic sexual abuse and jailed for more than 17 years.

Det Con Janet Thomas’s case began in August 2014 and ran until November 2016. It involved the historic and current systematic abuse of five victims over 40 years up to the offender’s arrest and involved the most serious of sexual offences.

She conducted her enquiries diligently, overcoming various hurdles. Her dedication demonstrated a high standard of personal responsibility and professionalism. She always put the victims first and provided support to them and their families throughout.

The investigation concluded at Swindon Crown Court in November 2016 when George Tinsley was unanimously found guilty of 38 counts of historic sexual offences and sentenced to 20 years in jail and five on licence.

CONTINUED OVER...

Spring 2017 | Page 11

NEWS PCs FACED A419 TRAFFIC TO RESCUE MAN PCs Beckie Diamon and Ben Cox BEN Cox and Beckie Diamon were awarded Chief Constable’s commendations for their courage and bravery in helping save a suicidal man on the busy A419.

In October 2016 PC Diamon was dispatched to help find a vulnerable man who had walked out of Great Western Hospital in Swindon. He was awaiting a mental health assessment after crashing his car into a tree in an attempt to take his own life.

PC Diamon saw a man walking along the slip road joining the A419 North from the Commonhead roundabout, about 20 metres from traffic.

PC Diamon identified the man as the missing person. Although distressed, disorientated and emotional, he agreed to accompany officers to the hospital. But, as he was being placed in the police car, he launched himself at one of the officers and started to run towards the traffic, pursued by officers.

He was rugby tackled by PC Cox and restrained by PC Diamon. All three were now in lane one with oncoming traffic and he was trying to break free. Traffic was brought to a standstill and the man was placed in handcuffs and leg restraints.

Without concern for their safety, the officers acted on instinct and no doubt saved the man’s life whilst protecting the public from what could have been a devastating incident.

THE APPLIANCE OF SCIENCE BY GREG Greg Page GREG works in Business Intelligence at HQ and received the Force’s first Outstanding Innovation and Creativity Award for his exemplary skills in developing Qlikview.

Qlikview connects systems, turning the huge amount of information the Force holds into analysis and insight to aid decision making.

Over the last 12 months Greg, pictured above right, has developed Qlikview

Page 12 | Spring 2017

Greg Page

applications which support the organisation in making better evidencebased decisions.

Greg’s work has resulted in enabling significant innovative approaches to capture and display information, turning the data into valuable insight.

His technical skills have been best demonstrated through an operational policing application used within Community Policing Teams (CPTs).

He built the application using complex techniques, skills and coding, resulting in an advanced application.

Greg assisted in the roll-out of CPTs by supporting the organisation in making resourcing decisions based on demand.

Not only did this take into consideration traditional demand such as crimes, incidents and response, it also captured vulnerability, public protection needs and population.

Greg also supported colleagues in producing the People Application used by the People Intelligence Board and Resource Management Panel to make decisions. It combines a significant amount of information the Force holds on its people, and gives a far greater insight into people information than Wiltshire Police has been able to get previously.

SPECIALS PURSUED STABBING SUSPECT SPC Daniel Sergiu and SPC Nick Earle Danny Sergiu and Nick Earle received the highest award, a Chief Constable’s Commendation, for their bravery and selflessness after pursuing a violent offender.

In December - following an alleged stabbing - they arrested a known violent offender after a chase on foot. They are pictured below with Commissioner Angus Macpherson.

NEWS

ROLL OF HONOUR Chief Constable’s Commendation SPC Daniel Sergiu SPC Nick Earle PCSO Mike Obern Graham Fisher

Graham has been a role model to probationer officers; a coach and mentor to our aspiring leaders and has been inspirational in the design and delivery of the Core Leadership and Developing Leaders Programmes.

As a leader and colleague, Graham was greatly admired by the People Development team. His warm, friendly and humorous approach created a highly productive and supportive atmosphere which encouraged his team and all he came into contact with to be the best they can be.

WOMAN DRAGGED TO SAFETY FROM WATER

They demonstrated initiative and visited the home address of a suspect. He ran off when confronted. Despite believing that he was armed with a knife and had markers for firearms and violence, both officers pursued and arrested him. They showed selfless fortitude.

SPC Sergiu was a new member of the Special Constabulary and was being tutored by SPC Earle.

The award recognises the importance of volunteers in preventing crime and safeguarding the communities in Wiltshire.

TRAINER’S AWARD FOR INSPIRING LEADERSHIP Graham Fisher Graham’s leadership skills and dedication to the training of officers and staff was recognised with a Chief Constable’s Inspirational Leaders Award.

Graham, pictured above right, has consistently demonstrated professionalism and commitment in delivering the highest possible quality of service as the Training Delivery Inspector. His exemplary leadership skills have been instrumental in recognising the achievements, knowledge and capabilities of police officers and staff, encouraging and supporting them to reach their potential.

PC Beckie Diamon Former PC Andrew Lee PC Ben Cox Sgt Alex Spargo Outstanding Teamwork PC Simon Goodwin Police Dog Fozzy Certificate of Recognition Hannah Farthing (member of public) Teigan Morgan (member of public)

PCSO Mike Obern, PC Simon Goodwin and Police Dog Fozzy

Outstanding Innovation and Creativity Award

Officers and staff alongside Police Dog Fozzy helped save the life of a suicidal woman and were recognised for their bravery.

Greg Page

In September, following a report of concern for a vulnerable female, officers and staff made their way to Bradford on Avon where her car had been found.

Dog handler, PC Simon Goodwin, and Fozzy tracked her through dense undergrowth to a nearby river where she was found with just her head above water.

Without hesitation PCSO Mike Obern entered the river and pulled her towards the bank where, with the help of PCSO James Bates, they were able to rescue her from the water.

For his bravery in rescuing the woman from a dangerous situation, PCSO Obern was awarded a Chief Constable’s Commendation.

PCSO Bates and PC Goodwin with his dog, Fozzy, were awarded a Chief Constable’s Outstanding Teamwork award for their assistance and quick-thinking actions.

Certificate of Excellence Det Sgt Claire Smith Det Con Janet Thomas Inspirational Leadership Graham Fisher Long service and good conduct PC Sam Long PC Lee Armit Sgt John Hutchings Insp Paul Hacker Det Sgt Chris Hams Long service Sarah Holbrook Jonathan Gay Photos courtesy of Dominic Parkes Photography

Spring 2017 | Page 13

IN FOCUS

Lights, cam

It’s been a blast having a 999 TV crew in tow

Page 14 | Spring 2017

IN FOCUS

m e ra , a c t i o n PC JOE TOMPKINSON

Team 4 Swindon North CPT

THE ‘999 What’s Your Emergency?’ crews have been working alongside me - and a number of fellow officers - for the past ten weeks.

I had initially been reluctant to be filmed, having taken part in a TV series when I was very young in service, a lot less mature and actually quite bullish. I remember cringing when the whole thing was televised and swearing at the time ‘NEVER AGAIN’ – and I absolutely meant it!

However, my acting sergeant talked me into taking one of the series producers out with me (without the cameras) just to get a “feel” for what was going on.

Chris and I hit it off straight away and formed a great professional relationship. I saw an opportunity to take part and I really think we have a story that the public needs to hear. It was evident that the crews from Blast Films were very keen to get our story told and that they really understood that they were to do so responsibly.

Whilst I can’t say that you forget the cameras are there, it certainly becomes the case that you learn just to carry on with them around. I don’t think it’s massively changed the way I police and we’ve had a great laugh along the way.

The Force had arranged for a number of police vehicles to be rigged with cameras.

Pictures by Ben Tompkinson

There are two covering the front seats – the second can be turned to face the road when solo-crewed. The car is also rigged with microphones and my colleagues and I wear microphones on our uniforms which, they assure me, can be muted during a “comfort break”.

The crews are very interested in our dayto-day dealings so whilst the odd bundle, pursuit or knife job makes very watchable television, they also really want to get into the more mundane detail of what we deal with.

But every now and again you get one of “those” jobs, which even at the time of filming you kind of know are going to make it to the TV. There are also some that you hope won’t, but in many respects that’s the beauty of it all. What gets televised obviously isn’t my decision, but they’ve promised that the cameras will make me look five stone lighter.

Having pretty much immersed themselves in policing for the past ten weeks, the crews have been offered a warts and all view of what we deal with daily.

They’ve come face to face with violence, hilarity, frustration and the nonsense we encounter. They’ve observed first hand how it’s the police that sometimes seem to shoulder the burden for other agencies.

They went to an RTC in Swindon where a young mum tragically lost her life. When her husband attended the scene, not knowing she had died, I was impressed by the sensitivity of the crew who discreetly filmed from a distance, offering what will probably turn out to be a rare insight into the sadder side of our job.

They were with me, too, at a violent domestic incident where the male partner had imprisoned his girlfriend. She was screaming to us to help. An on-the-spot decision was made to force the door. The man came at us with a bottle. Initially, both he and the victim were angry that the cameras followed us in, but it’s deemed to be in the public interest to film such events and the cameras were allowed to remain.

There have been some bizarre jobs too, as you’d expect. There was the woman who called the police because her daughter flicked a pin at her, and the man who cut me up on a roundabout, was pulled over and arrested for drug driving and possession with intent to supply.

Most of the filming I’ve done has been with Alex, Leo, Chris and Lindsey and I can’t convey enough just what a passion these really talented guys have for their profession.

Spring 2017 | Page 15

IN FOCUS

v e i l e b t a h t m a e The t

Left to right: Zoe Sears, Michelle Francis, Hayley Viveash, Ceri Sonnet, Charlotte Watts, Gemma Blake and Nicola Coker

PAUL DEAL

robots, not stopping to wonder why we do it, and whether it actually adds value,” she explains.

IF someone from Continuous Improvement (CI) comes to talk about your work, the chances are they’ll ask one simple question five times: “Why?”

The definition of CI is “an ongoing effort to improve products, services or processes”.

The philosophy which guides the team is that, if everyone in a department takes little steps to improve what they personally do, then the department, and the Force, will benefit. It’s about continuous improvement, not perfection.

Communications Officer

They might say: “Why do you produce this spreadsheet?” If you say: “Because the guy who did the job before me always did so,” then they’ll ask: “Why did he produce it?” And so on.

“If we get to the fifth ‘why’ and they can still justify the need for the spreadsheet, then there is obviously a good reason for compiling it,” says Zoe Sears, who heads the CI team.

“The thing is that we mostly do things because the person who did the job before us did it. We can all be a bit like

Page 16 | Spring 2017

The team is made up of five CI officers, a Policy Officer (see middle panel on right) and an Environmental Scanning and Research Officer.

Requests for CI to carry out reviews can come in various ways: the result of an inspection by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC); linked to the Commissioner’s Police and Crime Plan or

the Force’s Service Delivery Plan. Then again environmental scanning, the risk register or a performance issue may be the trigger.

The CI team has conducted some big reviews. The performance culture review, for instance, resulted in the removal of Force targets.

Zoe says: “We recently carried out a review of leadership culture. We looked, for example, at the flattening of the Force hierarchy. We issued an online questionnaire and carried out workshops with inspectors and sergeants. We engaged with 243 officers and staff in one to one conversations or focus groups.

“The Senior Leadership Team (SLT) wants it straight from us, not watered down. We anonymised the evidence we gathered.

Our view is that, if people give up their

IN FOCUS

r e t t e b n i ves

I FEEL TRUS TED AND EMPOW ERED HAYLEY V

iveash from Finance joined CI in January on secondment.

She says: “I’m enjoying getti ng out and abou t, engaging with staff at all leve ls.

I’m also enjoyi ng the way our leaders empo wer the team , giving us freedom to w ork flexibly an d trusting us. I’m gainin g new skills an da greater confide nce in my abili ties.”

ANDY IS OU R POLICY GUID E AND

Y Irving is the CI team’s policy officer.

He’s responsi ble for overseeing all Force polic ies and procedur es, ensuring they are in line with the law and national guidance.

He maintains the Force’s po licy library, researches w here best prac tice is in place and obta ins copies of policies and procedur es from other forces.

To find our po licy library go to the firstpoint hom e page and se arch for policy and proc edures. There are also links to au thorised profes sional practice and N ational Police Chiefs’ Council/Home Office guidan ce.

time to attend a focus group, we owe it to them to ensure their views are reported back anonymously and accurately, with no spin, to the SLT.”

judgment in these areas last year, an assessment the Force is striving to maintain and, where possible, improve on in 2017.

Next for the CI team is a review of the Community Policing Team (CPT) model.

“It’s going to be a huge project,” says Zoe, “and our findings will go to SLT, the Commissioner and the Police and Crime Panel. We want honest answers, and if people tell us it is not working well, then we need their feedback to enable improvements to be made.”

The team provides regular information to the Force on current national issues. This information can be found by going to the Continuous Improvement Team page on firstpoint and selecting the environmental scanning portal. Ad hoc requests for research are dealt with as well as benchmarking with other forces.

Preparation is also well underway for the HMIC efficiency and legitimacy inspection in June. The inspectors will be looking to see how well the Force understands the demand for its services, whether it treats staff and the public with fairness and respect, and how it approaches savings.

HMIC gave the Force an overall “good”

Zoe is proud of her team. She says: “They are inquisitive, confident, engaging and 100 per cent committed to helping the Force to improve.

“They don’t turn up with the answers.

What they do is to ask the questions and encourage people in the department to come up with the solutions.”

OUR TOP TASKS ■ Continuous improvement reviews ■ Liaising with Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary ■ Overseeing Force policies and procedures ■ Environmental scanning and benchmarking ■ Managing the Force risk register ■ Monitoring how the Police and Crime Plan is being delivered.

Find out more on the Continuous Improvement portal on firstpoint.

Spring 2017 | Page 17

IN FOCUS

Left to right: Sandra Samuel, Sgt Anne Pursey, Supt Gavin Williams, Det Sgt Tamara Campe and PC Mandie Ball

New team aims to bridge diversity gap PHIL MACKIE

organisations to make their workforces representative. Policing is under particular scrutiny.

IF you were asked the question “How representative is Wiltshire Police of the communities served?” how would you answer?

This month work has started in earnest as the new six-strong, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) team, within Strategic Development, is brought up to full strength as people are redeployed or join from outside. The team comprises three sergeants and three positive action officers headed by Superintendent Gavin Williams.

Communications Supervisor

Reports by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC) say we do a good job. So no doubt most readers would answer positively. However, we don’t truly reflect our communities in terms of diversity and inclusion.

In Wiltshire and Swindon there is a 5.5 per cent Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) population, yet the workforce has just 1.6 per cent BME representation. We need to bridge that gap.

Apart from a genuine will to engage with our communities and have a workforce that reflects them, there is the need to meet the Government’s BME 2020 Vision. This calls on all public sector

Page 18 | Spring 2017

Supt Williams said: “Initially, the role of the team is to engage with BME communities, build trust and see that our service meets the needs of those communities. With improved links we can show that policing is a career path well worth consideration and use positive action to aid recruitment.

“Overall the EDI team will help us attract, recruit, retain and develop a diverse workforce that reflects the cultures of our Wiltshire communities.”

We’re positive this is going to help THE Equality Act 2010 says employers can, in some situations, take steps to help certain disadvantaged groups access employment or training. This is known as positive action and it revolves around nine so-called protected characteristics where it is unlawful to treat someone differently. They are: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

age disability gender reassignment marriage and civil partnership pregnancy and maternity race religion or belief sex sexual orientation

This means we can help people with a particular protected characteristic overcome their disadvantage by providing support or mentoring. This puts them in a good position to make a job application to Wiltshire Police.

As an employer, the protected characteristic can be taken into account when deciding who to appoint for a job, especially where that characteristic is under-represented in the workforce.

IN FOCUS

Let’s value the difference, Chief tells conference THE Chief Constable Mike Veale and the Police and Crime Commissioner, Angus Macpherson, welcomed around 80 delegates, representing seven forces, Nationwide Building Society and community leaders, to headquarters for the BPA South West and Wales regional conference.

From key national speakers the conference learned that we all face the same challenges of recruitment and retention of candidates from minority groups. It is the same in both the public and private sectors and the day highlighted what is happening in the wider world.

“We need to value the difference and the way it makes our service richer and more representative of the communities we serve.

“When I see the outstanding efforts of my BPA colleagues here in Wiltshire I feel confident we are travelling in the right direction.”

It is intended to hold another conference in 2018.

Janet Hills, President of the National Black Police Association, helped to open the conference

“We need to change the way we think” said Mike Veale. “There is a role for us all to play as we need to recognise and embrace diversity, be it racial, religious, cultural or sexual.

Dr Aileen Alleyne was one of the guest speakers at the conference

Ronnie’s our first full-time BPA chair

SERGEANT Ronnie Lungu has been chairman of the Wiltshire Black Police Association (BPA) for the past nine months, a voluntary role that he has combined with his normal duties.

Since the beginning of April, Ronnie is working in the role full time for 12 months with the EDI team, in order to help support BPA members within Wiltshire Police and develop BME community engagement and recruitment.

“I am proud to have the opportunity of representing my BPA colleagues and supporting the Force in its objective of improving diversity amongst officers and staff.

Chief Constable Mike Veale, Sgt Ronnie Lungu and PCC Angus Macpherson

“Since February when we hosted an excellent regional conference for BPA members from seven forces, external organisations and community leaders, I have found my confidence for the future growing ever stronger. We have new links, new contacts and new opportunities.”

Spring 2017 | Page 19

IN FOCUS

The special cop from casualty SIMONE MATTHEWS Communications Officer

AS a Senior Emergency Registrar in Accident and Emergency, Rachel Oaten stands on the frontline of the NHS. When she’s not managing A&E, Rachel chooses to spend her free time standing on the frontline of policing - as a Special Inspector with Wiltshire Police.

Policing runs in the family: a number of her relatives were officers and her father was a Wiltshire Police driving instructor.

Whilst at university studying biochemistry and toxicology she decided to join Surrey Police as a Special Constable.

She says: “Becoming a police officer would have been a natural progression for me and I did consider joining as a regular.

“But on completing my degree I was offered a place to study graduate-entry medicine. Having already started as a

Rachel with Commissioner Angus Macpherson

Page 20 | Spring 2017

Special, and thoroughly enjoying the role I decided to continue whilst studying medicine and transferred to Warwickshire Police.

“I enjoyed working at Warwickshire and began to progress up the ranks. My particular focus was on rural crime and the night time economy.

“I liked that I knew the farmers by name and had the time to pop in and have a cup of tea with them, something that the regulars didn’t have time to do.”

Rachel has brought her experience to Wiltshire and is the Special Constabulary lead on rural crime.

So, how does the “day job” compare to the policing role?

“As both a doctor and a Special you have to be resilient, you need to be in a good head space and be able to go home and leave the job at the door.

“You assume both roles are quite stressful,

IN FOCUS but for me being a doctor is more stressful and demanding.

“As a Special I know that if I need extra support I can call for help at any time.

As a doctor and responsible for an entire emergency department which covers a large geographical area, I am the person others call for when they need help.

“In both roles it always helps to have a good team and a good sense of humour.

“It is really important to have downtime away from both roles as each job can often bring some pretty traumatic and distressing incidents. When I’m not working I have a passion for llamas, German shepherd dogs and baking.

“In the 14 years I have been a Special the job that stands out for me is a major incident I attended in 2007. It was a major warehouse fire in Atherstone on Stour in Warwickshire, in which four fire fighters

The day job: Rachel at work in Great Western Hospital

died. It was a really sad situation as we all knew each other.

“In September 2016 I changed jobs and transferred to Wiltshire Police as a Special Inspector.

“I wanted a new challenge, and by this point I knew I wanted to be a career Special. I was looking for new opportunities and to learn new skills that I wouldn’t get in my day job. Wiltshire is able to give me those opportunities.

“My experience of Wiltshire Police has been wholly positive. People are prepared to listen to ideas and everyone has bent over backwards to help.

“From what I have seen so far Wiltshire is a really progressive Force and it is really nice to see the investment in people, and that the Force opens doors for Specials.

“In all my time as a Special I had never met a Chief Constable, until recently when I attended a roadshow where the Chief shared his vision for this Force.

“As well as continuing to develop my career as a Special I feel I have more I can offer and give back to Wiltshire Police.

I am a free medical resource, and we should be using Specials more for the additional skills and expertise they have.

“Following Operation Drogo I want to continue to lead intelligence-led Specials operations, including those that mix up the Specials and give them more experiences of policing.

“I would like to see how I can use my medical training for the benefit of the Force and to reduce police and NHS resources.

“Next for me as a doctor, I am looking forward to joining Salisbury Hospital as an A&E consultant.”

Spring 2017 | Page 21

LIFE

Matt, the humble star of England Police BEN HOLLOWAY

Communications & Digital Channel Manager

WHEN not tackling crime as part of the Community Policing team in Swindon, PC Matt Dickens gets involved in tackling of a different kind – as winger for the England Police Rugby section.

Formed in 2015, the England Police team is made up of the best police players from across the country.

Competition for places is fierce, requiring hard work, dedication, and a fair dose of natural talent.

Matt has been a vital team player for England Police this season February 2016: England Police vs Scotland Police. Lost 19-29. Matt didn’t score but had one of the highest tackle counts for the team.

March 2016: England Police vs Combined Irish Police Team. Won 2522. Matt scored the winning try.

October 2016: England Police vs England Deaf. Won 64-12 with Matt scoring two tries January 2017: England Police vs The Combined Irish. Lost 23-28 but with Matt scoring the try of the game by running the length of the pitch without an Irishman placing a hand on him to score under the posts.

Even for someone like Matt, now a regular 1st XV player at Chippenham RFC after stints at Supermarine RFC Swindon, Moseley and Henley Hawks, a place in the side is by no means guaranteed.

But after a series of tough trial matches in Birmingham, with players from across the country travelling to take part, Matt was finally selected to represent England Police in its first match against Australia Police in London.

It’s all down to Matt’s hard work and dedication, according to Craig Dalby, who works in the Firearms Licensing team and also coaches Matt for Chippenham and England Police.

“Matt is a very fast, physical player with a knack for assessing his opposite man,” said Craig. “It’s all down to his own work ethic.

“He probably trains harder than anyone in his own time, and he regularly has the highest tackle count in a game, but is one of the most humble and modest men you’ll meet.

Page 22 | Spring 2017

“Although the team lost 21-18, Matt had a brilliant 80 minutes, and proved his worth in the team by scoring a try.”

Matt was selected for the next game versus England Deaf at Nottingham where England won and Matt scored two tries, one taking the ball in his own half and then crashing his way to the line for an amazing solo try.

“It’s a great honour to represent England Police,” said Matt. “It has been a hard process getting through the trials, especially with the incredibly tough competition for places. But it has been an amazing experience and hopefully I will be able to carry on representing England Police.”

Craig said: “He was once selected to represent British Police - a step up from England - but turned it down as it clashed with an important England session. This to me shows true selfsacrifice and loyalty.

“The way his values show on match day, and the way he speaks to his team mates – for me he is a true ambassador for the Force.”

LIFE

f o y a d r e h t o n A o t s s e n s s e l law e k i M r e b m e rem PAUL DEAL

Communications Officer

FORMER Swindon police officer Mike Lawless continues to live on in the memory of many friends and colleagues, thanks to the work of Fatboy’s children’s cancer charity and the amazing generosity of its supporters.

PC Mike “Fatboy” Lawless died from cancer in 1999 aged 31. He had previously worked as a nurse in a variety of hospitals including Guy’s in London before joining the police service and working in Swindon.

Anyone seen the ball? Wiltshire Police, in blue, get stuck in Picture courtesy of Sola Photography

Both sides played hard, battling against the wind and rain Fatboys, in gold and black, on their way to victory to compete Picture courtesy of Sola Photography for the Mike Lawless Memorial Shield. Fatboy’s XV retained the shield, beating Wiltshire Police 36-20.

Mike was a keen rugby player, proficient Insp Andy Bridge said: “The main event musician and likeable and popular man was the fundraising music and auction with a terrific sense of humour. night at Level 3 in Swindon which started with a moving speech from Jo Cockwell, After he died, friends and family set up the the mother of one of the many children Fatboy’s charity to raise money which is that Fatboy’s has helped over the years. principally used to buy Christmas presents for children with cancer, leukaemia and “Jo gave a very emotional insight into her other life-threatening conditions. daughter’s successful battle with cancer and what the gift from Fatboy’s meant to Each year, a fundraiser – The Day Of her and her family. There was not a dry Lawlessness – raises a large percentage eye in the house.” of the much-needed funds to fulfil the charity’s objectives.

This year, Fatboy’s was honoured to welcome back headline act Dan Reed This year’s 19th Day of Lawlessness Network as they started their Fight in March kicked off with the traditional Another Day UK tour, with support from memorial rugby match between Wiltshire rock band, Vega. Both bands treated the Police XV and Fatboy’s XV at Swindon audience to their own melodic rock music Rugby Club.

with plenty of audience participation and encores. Vega and Dan Reed Network played either side of the auction which provided prizes ranging from signed sports memorabilia to foreign holidays.

Insp Bridge said: “The generosity of donors, bid winners, raffle ticket buyers and people coming to the event helped Fatboy’s raise something in the region of £9,000. This, together with the numerous donations from runners, walkers, party and dinner organisers, singing psychics and many more will help Fatboy’s to help about 90 children this Christmas.”

Want to help?

FATBOY’S is already planning next year’s event so watch out for more information.

If you want to help Fatboy’s, please go to Justgiving.

More information can be found on Facebook, Twitter (@FatboysCharity) and on the Fatboy’s charity website www.fatboyscharity.co.uk.

Spring 2017 | Page 23

LIFE PAUL DEAL

Communications Officer

A funny thing happened at one of the Chief’s roadshows. Mike Veale and some police officer colleagues in front of me were exchanging a bit of gentle banter when one of the women advised him: “I wouldn’t mess with her if I was you, Chief, she’s a British and Commonwealth judo champion!”

We don’t go in for fake news on Firstbeat, so I needed to find out if this was a true story. Turns out it was.

PC Sian Wilson, of Team One at Trowbridge, is indeed the holder of Commonwealth gold medals and world cup bronze medals. She’s a former British number one and British open champion.

Why it’s best not to mess with Sian

Sian started playing judo in London, where she is originally from, at the age of five. She won her first national title at 13. Four years later she started to train full time at Bath University where she received funding from the National Lottery. She was a member of the British team for 15 years.

She joined Wiltshire Police in 2012 in the control room and became an officer in 2014.

She is currently In Trowbridge on Team One CPT. Sian no longer competes with the British team but she is now a member of the British police team and won silver at the Police Europeans in 2015.

In September she will be representing Wiltshire Police in the police national championship.

She says: “I do enjoy judo and I have been doing it since I was young, but I don’t have much time since I started working full time for the police.

“I would encourage anyone to take it up.

There are many clubs around for people to join. My club at Bath Uni is an elite training group, so I wouldn’t recommend that for someone just starting out.

Page 24 | Spring 2017

Why not have a g JUDO is a fun and exciting sport that has something to offer for everyone.

Alongside the fitness benefits of the sport, judo also has values including respect, enjoyment and fair play.

Judo is an unarmed Olympic combat sport that demands both physical prowess and great mental discipline

What are the benefits?

Pictures courtesy of David Finch, Judophotos

“I believe it is a useful skill to have as a police officer. I have not yet used it in my work, apart from it giving me the strength to restrain people when needed.

“It has certainly given me confidence though so I hope that, if I ever do get into a tricky situation, I would be able to protect myself or others.”

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Getting fit and building strength Increasing flexibility and mobility Learning discipline and respect Learning a new skill Building new friendships Increasing confidence and self-esteem Learning in a supportive environment

What do I need to start?

All you need to try judo is baggy/loose old clothing (something you don’t mind stretching) or basic gym kit – a T-shirt and jogging bottoms.

LIFE

Three marathons in three years RICHARD WARREN Special Constable

I’M running the London Marathon on 23 April for the third year in a row for three good causes.

They are the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society, the Swindon Therapy Centre for MS and Dressability, which alters and adapts clothing for people with disabilities.

I’m taking part to celebrate the start of my 50th year as a Special - and to celebrate the fact that I can do it. This might be the last time. But then again it might not.

During my training, to improve my start/stop recovery, I have been collecting and disposing of any litter I come across, to keep my part of Wiltshire litter-free.

I decided that some of my sponsorship will go to the COPS charity, especially since the tragic events on the marathon course in London recently.

My wife Lynette has lived with MS since the 1980s and is my inspiration to go the extra 26.2 miles.

go and throw yourself into judo Most clubs have a judo jacket they can loan to you for your first session, after which you may choose to buy a basic judo kit called a judogi.

Judo clubs are friendly and supportive environments which regularly host newcomers, you will likely not be the only beginner. Most clubs offer free taster sessions.

Typically, in a first session you will learn the basics of judo, including: ■ Break falls – How to fall and land on the mat safely ■ Gripping – How to correctly grip your opponent’s judogi If you’re a quick learner you might also get to start doing simple judo techniques too.

The British Judo Association has hundreds of clubs across the UK where you can throw yourself into judo: www.britishjudo.org.uk/club-finder www.throwyourselfintojudo.com

Ferndale Judo Club 01793 814 371 atlantistargazer@btinternet.com Swindon Judo Club 01793 887 473 swindonjudo@tiscali.co.uk www.swindonjudo.onsport.com

She now enjoys the therapies and the social side of the Swindon Therapy Centre for MS. I am now a volunteer operator of the barometric oxygen chamber at the centre, and also enjoy the company of a few retired police personnel who volunteer there.

I will be 72 when I start the race but I won’t be the oldest runner on the course.

Cirencester Judo Club 07867 836 494 cirenjudo@outlook.com www.cirenjudo.co.uk Marlborough & Pewsey Judo Club 01672 811 311 judoclub@hotmail.co.uk Devizes Judo Club 07867 338 977 gh40@btinternet.com www.devizesjudoclub.co.uk Sandra Klinger – Regional Delivery Officer for the West Region 07854 215654 sandra.klinger@britishjudo.org.uk

I’m really looking forward to the afterrun massage.

If you would like to support me, and the three good causes, please go to Virgin Money Giving and type in my name. Alternatively, send a cheque, made out to Richard Warren, to me c/o Royal Wootton Bassett police station.

Spring 2017 | Page 25

FIVE-PAG E WELLNES S SPECIAL ... FIVE-PAG E WELLNES S SPECIAL ... FIVE-PAG E WELLNES S SP

Getting w into wel

“It’s not about be about doing the r

WELLNESS is far more than a trendy management buzzword; it’s becoming a far more prominent feature of our workplace culture at Wiltshire Police.

It is described as an active process of becoming aware of, and making choices towards, a healthy and fulfilling life.

To understand why it’s so important to the Force, Firstbeat caught up with Chief Constable Mike Veale, who has used his recent roadshows to discuss the organisation’s approach to health and wellbeing.

The Chief said: “The health and wellbeing of the people in this organisation is a major priority for us and as I have said at the roadshows: it’s not about being popular, it’s about doing the right thing.

“Already we have seen the investment in the fantastic Occupational Health Unit and we will continue to explore opportunities to invest in the wellbeing of our people.

“This work goes so much further than just ensuring people are well enough to work: it is about making sure people have access to the equipment and services they need to best manage their workload and the potential stresses that come with it.”

Page 26 | Spring 2017

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S SPECIAL ... FIVE-PAG E WELLNES FIVE-PSASPECIAL PECIAL ... FIVE-PAG E WELLNES S SPECIAL ... FIVE-PAG E WELLNES S SPECIAL ... FIVE-PAG E WELLNES S SPECIAL ... FIVE-PAG E WELLNES GE SPECIA

well llness

L

Living with an invisible illness DETECTIVE Sergeant Marcus Tawn is a man on a mission: delivering an important message around mental health.

depression and how I found a route through to understanding the condition,” said Marcus.

“I’ve now spoken to over 200 people across the Force and the feedback’s been extremely positive.

Since sharing his experience at a mental health awareness day last year, Marcus has gone on to deliver a number of presentations.

“The day was empowering and it almost felt as if there was now a passport for those difficult conversations to be had that the police service had historically shied away from.”

“I hope my talk has allowed others to understand more about the impact of adverse mental health and how to recognise the triggers in themselves, their colleagues and families.”

“I talked about my experiences of suffering from anxiety and

eing popular, it’s right thing” Over the course of the roadshows the Chief has asked people for their feedback and suggestions. Those comments, along with many others, have been put into a list of innovative ideas for consideration, available on the firstpoint Wellness page.

Mr Veale said: “I have been incredibly encouraged by the engagement shown.

Marcus delivers an engaging presentation around his career as a police officer and the impact of his deteriorating mental health upon his home life, a message he said has resonated with colleagues: “It became clear through feedback that I wasn’t alone and many colleagues had been in a similar position.

“It was like a ripple effect with conversations being had that I hadn’t ever seen in my service.

“There have been some fantastic suggestions – more than 100 so far – that we are looking into in order to improve our wellbeing at work and strive to make wellness a central part of our organisational culture.”

He said: “As we strive to become a truly world-class organisation, we must keep embracing innovative ways to improve the way we work.”

Welcome to this special “fold out” feature. The next few pages will give you an insight into the work that has been going on so far, how you can get involved and what you can expect to see over the coming weeks and months as Wiltshire gets well into wellness.

He said: “The stigma of mental health is one that the police service hasn’t ever truly broken down. We have been expected to cope no matter what.

“Taking the first step in admitting you need help has often been very difficult for those working in the service.

“I’m truly passionate in helping others understand more about mental health and how we can help each other in and out of the workplace.

“The key to improving mental health can sometimes be really simple: it can often be no more complicated than just taking time out to talk to someone.

“Gaining a better awareness of mental health and wellbeing is important; it has a knock-on effect across our lives at work and home.

“I think we’ve all got a part to play and hope these initial steps are going some way to help us all understand more about mental health.”

Some of the suggestions have included relaxation spaces, support groups and a range of other initiatives to promote wellness.

Last year Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC) said Wiltshire Police is ‘outstanding’ in the way it treats its staff, but the Chief told Firstbeat he is far from complacent when it comes to taking care of his people.

Marcus’s authentic, open and honest style has helped drive the message that we all have vulnerabilities, no matter how large or small.

TIME TO GET IN THE ZONE KEEPING fit and healthy is a vital part of life at Wiltshire Police, and as part of our drive to make wellness a central part of our culture we’ve introduced a brand-new initiative, accessible from the palm of your hand.

The Wellbeing Zone is a brand-new app from Police Mutual, which aims to help you maintain your fitness, track your diet and take control of your health and wellbeing from one single place on your smartphone.

But there’s so much more to wellbeing than just keeping fit. The Wellbeing Zone app comes with a whole host of features to help you with healthy eating, alcohol, sleep,

stress, and money management. It’s all about making positive changes to your life, staying motivated, living well and feeling well.

What you can do on the Wellbeing Zone: ■ Take the wellness assessment ■ Set realistic goals and track your progress ■ Follow your own personal programmes ■ Share your achievements and connect with friends ■ Get news, recipes and tips.

A supporting hand THEY say ‘a problem shared is a problem halved’ and that’s why we’ve listened to your feedback. We know from the 2016 staff survey that already 63 per cent of you feel supported which is fantastic but we would like to build on this further. As a result of this, and your suggestions on the innovation log, three initial support groups – focusing on cancer, the menopause, and pregnancy – have been set up for Wiltshire Police staff and their families.

The aims of the groups are to provide support and guidance for members with the same issues, similar experiences or concerns, allowing members time to come together.

Each group will have a designated chair who will have the opportunity to feed into the Strategic Wellness Board with any organisational issues, good practice or continuous improvement suggestions.

There will also be opportunities to promote the groups across the Force.

These are your groups and it will be up to you to utilise and mould them to suit your needs. As the groups grow, if you have great initiatives there will also be a small fund available to support them. The group can simply apply to the board and each request will be considered on its own merit.

Sarah Robbins, Collaboration Superintendent, will be chairing the Pregnancy Support Group.

Sarah said: “This group is designed to support ladies balancing the demands of work alongside the struggles of pregnancy. I am Mum to a one year old boy so understand how difficult the pregnancy itself can be, as well as the worries you may experience about returning to work following maternity leave. It is hoped that this forum will give us the opportunity to share experiences and offer advice and guidance.

Everyone’s experience and personal situation is different, but my hope is that through this group we can not only help individuals who may need it, but also see how as an organisation we can better support pregnant ladies in the future.”

All three groups will have a dedicated section on the Health and Wellbeing portal site where you’ll find everything you need to know, including advice, support and information about the group and how to become a member.

How do I join and find out more?

Look out for more information coming soon on e-brief with key contact details, when and where the groups will meet and all the essential need-to-know details.

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Bin the bun, says Angus EVERYBODY deserves a treat from time to time. In the case of Angus Macpherson, that treat is a bun.

“It’s fair to say that, when I’m out meeting the public at a market, I’m invariably tempted by a locallybaked Chelsea bun,” admits the Police and Crime Commissioner.

“But Wiltshire’s markets also boast excellent fruit and veg stalls. So I’m going to try to steer myself away from the buns in favour of the healthier fruit option.”

Mention wellness to the Commissioner and you might be surprised by how interested he is in the subject.

Mention lunch times and you quickly discover he has some strong views he wants to share.

“In some organisations, if your computer is on for a certain time, it tells you to log off and go for a walk. Too many of us sit in front of our screens for hours on end without getting up and moving around.

“I would urge colleagues not to take food back to their desks to eat. We all need some down time to refresh ourselves and chat to people. It’s like pressing a reset button.

“It is a pity that there is no culture of asking people in the canteen if you can join their table. When I go to the canteen I like to chat to people, including those I don’t know.

You pick up useful snippets from people you might otherwise never meet.

“We have flattened the hierarchy and said everyone’s views are valid, but you won’t necessarily pick up those views and ideas if you don’t mix with colleagues in the canteen.

I’d like it to be a social space for everyone.

“I have been impressed by the new canteen contractor at HQ, but I am going to ask them to consider adding a salad bar and a healthier alternative main course each day.

“But I fully recognise that many of our colleagues don’t have the use of a canteen and also that many do shift work. I’m pleased to hear that the Force is exploring options to enable more officers and staff to access healthier food.

“I think there are probably too many meetings. Sometimes they are back-to-back.

Where’s the thinking time? Where’s the opportunity to read and gain fresh insights?

“My mother in law is downsizing and won’t be able to fit everything into her new home.

I have asked her for one of her fruit bowls to put on the table in my office. I shall keep it stocked with healthy fruit which I can enjoy during the day. And if I’m off on another long car trip to a conference or meeting, I’ll grab some fruit for the journey and bin the bun.”

In the kitchen with Peter Vaughan WHETHER you work office hours or shifts, follow Peter’s quick and easy recipe for a healthy meal to pack and eat on the go.

ROASTED COUSCOUS SALAD

■ one tsp ground cumin

1. Heat a heavy bottomed frying pan and add the couscous. Cook gently for about five minutes shaking the pan occasionally until the couscous has turned golden brown.

■ one tsp ground coriander

2. Add spices and stir in. Cook for one min.

■ Pinch chilli powder

3. Add vegetable stock or water and remove pan from heat. Cover with cling film or tight fitting lid and leave to stand for ten mins until the couscous has absorbed all the liquid and is nice and fluffy.

Makes four portions: ■ 200g couscous (wholemeal contains the most nutrients)

■ 400ml vegetable stock or water ■ Selection of your favourite salad vegetables, particular those in season at the time of making eg spring onions, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, carrots This roasted couscous salad provides slow release energy to see you through the afternoon/night, whilst the vegetables will help you towards your five plus a day. Make a load and then cooked couscous freezes well. Pack and take to work to avoid those fast food temptations.

Don’t forget that eating well = feeling well.

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■ three tbsps of cooked chickpeas, lentils or beans ■ two tbsps of raisins or chopped apricots or diced apple ■ Juice of one lemon ■ two tbsps of good oil (extra virgin olive oil/rapeseed/sunflower)

4. Dice the salad vegetables and add to the spicy couscous (either when warm or cold). Add fruit 5. Dress with some lemon juice and olive oil and season to taste.

Thank you to Peter Vaughan from Vaughan’s Cookery School and Bistro, Devizes.

Part of the culture review now being led by the board highlighted the need to incorporate a more collaborative approach to resolving conflict in the workplace. Conflict is sometimes inevitable, given the challenging roles and circumstances of our staff and officers.

However it can be difficult and emotional and more often than not leaves behind more issues than those it resolves. A new issue resolution procedure has been designed to create an approach that is less stressful and will improve the mental wellbeing of all concerned.

Natalie Strong, HR Manager for the Force, says: “The Senior Command Team recognises the importance of mental wellbeing and the impact conflict has. This is why they committed to provide the funds to train 12 individuals from across the organisation to become fully certified workplace mediators.

“In the event of a dispute mediators will work with the relevant parties to go through the issues, to find solutions and

to prevent unnecessary escalation. The intention is to encourage a move away from the formal grievance procedure routes towards resolving issues at an earlier stage in a collaborative way.

“There is however a wider aim too and that is to look at how we all communicate with each other across the Force. For me, it’s all about encouraging more open and honest conversations in a respectful and values-based way. This will have a positive impact on effective communication that influences the outcomes of things like the performance management process, PDRs and 1-2-1s.”

The new mediation scheme will be covered in future issues of Firstbeat. In the meantime, further information can be found on firstpoint.

STRATEGIC WELLNESS BOARD THE Strategic Wellness Board was introduced to reinforce the Chief Constable’s commitment to making the wellbeing of officers, staff and volunteers an absolute priority.

Its aims are, among other things, to provide strong, visible leadership for the improvement of the health and wellbeing of all employees through our wellness culture, and to assess and take forward wellness innovation opportunities, arising from a series of interactive wellness workshops held with officers and staff.

COMING SOON...

WE have a whole range of exciting innovations and schemes coming up over the next few months to support wellness around the Force.

Healthy stations at Headquarters and Gablecross to support the new Wellbeing Zone

Commissioner’s healthy eating campaign

Launch of our managers’ wellness toolkit

Maternity support group launch

Senior managers will also be sharing their three personal wellbeing goals Cancer support group launch

Menopause support group launch

MAY

Communications Officer

KEEPING well is not just about healthy eating and exercise. It’s also about how the culture of the Force itself, in its policies, procedures and guidelines, can affect the wellbeing of officers and staff.

The Strategic Wellness Board, introduced in October 2016, looks at all aspects of the way the Force operates in an effort to promote and improve wellbeing across the organisation.

APRIL

PAUL DEAL

Mediators aim to resolve disputes earlier

Mental health awareness focus Ready Steady Cook with chef Peter Vaughan Results of the wellness survey

Spring 2017 | Page 30