Firstbeat - summer2017

FIRSTBEAT

YOUR MAGAZINE, YOUR NEWS

Summer 2017 ISSUE 52

ff o e k a t r o f y d a e R

A new home for the blue light show

FUTURE STATE

Building our estate for the 21st Century Four-page special

www.wiltshire.police.uk

PEER TO PEER Talking your way to better health

wiltshirepolice

wiltshirepolice

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 and partner agencies.

THANK YOU FOR QUICKLY FINDING MY DAUGHTER

£14,000 dumper truck. The address in Somerset to which the plant was due to be delivered was known to me and linked to an organised crime group.

I AM writing a somewhat belated thank you for how your Force helped my family when our eight-year-old daughter with Down’s syndrome went missing in Salisbury. Thankfully she was found within about half an hour.

Of particular note were the call handler, Ian Oakley, who kept me from panicking with measured, calm questions, and PC Steven Jolly. It was he who wisely pursued - from the women in our group - a description of the clothing worn by my daughter, since my description reflected something she had worn several days before.

PROFESSIONAL, KIND AND COURTEOUS I WOULD like to formally commend PCs Gemma Bloomfield and Sarah Greenman for the extremely professional yet kind and courteous manner in which they attended my father’s

A few months later warrants were executed leading to nine stolen plant items being recovered and six suspects being arrested. Substantial proceeds of crime were seized.

The insurance industry, in particular NFU Mutual, was very pleased with the recoveries.

Sgt Vince Logue with Lavington cubs (see page 3)

death, and for looking after my mother until I arrived.

EXCEPTIONAL WORK ON STOLEN PLANT

In spring 2016 PC Lee expressed an interest to work on the A303 in Wiltshire and set up a small operation aimed at disrupting those working against our rural communities.

I AM writing on behalf of the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service (NaVCIS) to highlight exceptional work

by PC Andy Lee and Sgt Craig Hardy (retired) of the Tri-Force roads policing unit.

The resources were small, but a large number of offences were dealt with. The team seized stolen plant valued at about £55,000.

pages 6-7 about the filming there for the TV series 999: What’s Your Emergency?

attack to provide mutual aid and express solidarity with the people of that city and Greater Manchester Police. We also reflect the great work done by our Casualty Bureau.

Sgt Hardy stopped a recovery vehicle carrying a stolen

Without PC Lee and Sgt Hardy’s actions we would not have recovered the plant or revealed new suspects in an ongoing case.

INVALUABLE HELP

BY INSPECTORS IN August 2016 we (the Defence Safety Agency) wrote to request the assistance of Wiltshire Police in relation to a Ministry of Defence inquiry convened to investigate the crash of a Yak 52 aircraft in July 2016.

Dear reader, WELCOME to our summer issue. There is so much great work to celebrate in the Force that we have devoted FOUR pages to the latest Force awards. Our coverage starts on page 10.

Our hard working colleagues in the Crime and Communication Centre feature prominently with a story on page 5 about the recent tweetathon designed to help manage the massive demands placed on our services, and a feature on

We have four pages looking at the Commissioner’s estates strategy, featuring interviews with Angus Macpherson (who owns the estate) and Mike Veale. They both speak frankly about the serious shortcomings of some of our buildings.

Please see pages 15-18.

On a sombre note, we talk on page 9 to officers who travelled to Manchester after the bomb

We celebrate on pages 24-25 the tenth anniversary of the Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference (or MARAC) and go behind the scenes at the Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (or MASH).

In case you are wondering about the value of body worn

video, have a look at our story on page 26. Sgt Louis McCoy tells us that showing a suspect footage of an incident in which Louis was kicked in the groin led to a full and frank submission.

Our wellness campaign continues with a look at the work of our team of mediators, peer support for those with mental health issues and the results of our recent wellness survey. Please see pages 28-31.

WHAT’S INSIDE NEWS

I AM writing as Akela of 1st Lavington cub pack to highlight a generous act by Sgt Vince Logue who, in his own time, attended one of our sessions.

This helped them to complete the final task to attain their home safety activity badge, which he awarded at the end.

Matt is a terrific young man who conducts himself impeccably on and off the field; a real ambassador for Wiltshire.

ESS IS BACK IN BUSINESS

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FLEET TEAM RECOGNISED AT FORCE AWARDS

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WE NEED BUILDINGS FIT FOR 21st CENTURY POLICING

PRAISE FOR BID TO FIND STOLEN BAG PLEASE may I draw your attention to the professional way in which PC Darren Foulger conducted the inquiry in respect of my stolen handbag in Warminster. My bag was hidden in my car. The rear passenger window was smashed to gain access.

Although the culprit was caught on camera at the Halifax ATM, the coward had his face so well hidden he was not able to be identified.

IN FOCUS

He brought a police car, equipment and uniform for the cubs to examine and talked about life as a police officer, answering questions and explaining how and when to make an emergency call, all of which the cubs found fascinating.

I AM very pleased to report on another successful season for England Police Rugby Union.

I wish to pass on my thanks to PC Matt Dickens for his outstanding performance this season.

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ESTATES SPECIAL

CUBS GRATEFUL FOR VISIT BY VINCE

MATT IS A TRUE AMBASSADOR

NEWS

The inquiry panel was assisted by a number of Wiltshire Police personnel to whom we are extremely grateful. In particular we would like to single out Insp Alan Webb, who went through the incident log with me, and Insp David Stevenson, who subsequently explained the detail of the relevant entries.

The advice of both inspectors proved invaluable.

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STOPPING CRIME BEFORE IT HAPPENS

IN FOCUS

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firstbeat editorial team

HAPPY 10th BIRTHDAY, MARAC

WELLNESS

Editors: Paul Deal and Ben Holloway

Front cover picture: The show must go on: Andrew Newman (South Western Ambulance Service), PC Mandie Ball (Wiltshire Police) and Chris Harvey (Dorset and Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service and Emergency Services Show chairman).

Picture: Siobhan Boyle Photography

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Designer: Natalie Hobman

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Sub editor: Sam Howlett

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HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Email: firstbeat@wiltshire.pnn.police.uk

NEWS

MAKEOVER FOR SIREN APP WE have recently upgraded the SIREN app on all iPhones with a refreshed look. The upgrade also helps us manage and display content, including a media library and the ability to add videos in a more streamlined way.

After the new SIREN app has loaded (look for the green circle next to the SIREN icon), you will need to log on with your Force email address and password.

If you can’t remember your password, please click the “Forgot your password” link and a new one will be sent to you.

If you have any questions or problems, please email internalcommunications@wiltshire. pnn.police.uk

REACHING OUT ON ARMED FORCES DAY ARMED Forces Day at Queen Elizabeth Gardens in Salisbury provided a great opportunity for a team from Wiltshire Police to reach out to local communities.

Sgt Annie Pursey, of the diversity and inclusion team, said: “We were approached by many people who thanked the Force for keeping them safe.

“It gave us a good chance to engage with the public and build bridges with diverse groups. Young visitors had a positive interaction with our officers.

“We came away with details of six possible candidates interested in joining Wiltshire Police.

“Our stand was one of the busiest at the event.”

CONGRATULATIONS TO ANGUS MBE PCC Angus Macpherson received many messages of congratulation on social media after the announcement that he had been made an MBE in the Queen’s birthday honours list for services to the community in Wiltshire.

Angus, pictured with his wife SaraJane and their boxer dog Lola, is a former chairman of Threshold Housing Link and has run the Filling Station, a charity which works to feed homeless people on the streets of Swindon, for many years.

His close involvement with the two charities, and his former voluntary work as a magistrate, has given him insights into drug and alcohol issues and the need to tackle the cycle of reoffending.

Helping the public in their time of need ANDREW NORTON

Casualty Bureau Manager

ALONGSIDE news coverage of some of the shocking major incidents in recent months, you may have noticed a number for people to call.

On the other end of the line is the Casualty Bureau, made up of volunteers comprising police officers and staff. Their role is to take information empathetically and professionally from callers reporting missing people.

The Wiltshire Police Casualty Bureau was deployed for the London Bridge and Borough Market attack with 20 people working shifts from 7am to 10pm, taking

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It provides a weekly soup kitchen from a car park in the town centre which offers not just soup but hot dogs, hot drinks, sandwiches, blankets, clothes, toiletries, support and advice. He regularly takes his turn driving the Filling Station van.

around 700 calls. About 7,500 calls were taken in total with many forces assisting.

Our services were also needed when fire tragically engulfed Grenfell Tower in June.

Jane Moore, columnist for The Sun, praised call handlers and wrote about how they took calls from people pleading for help and the “burden of hearing their distress”.

I want to express my gratitude to the Wiltshire Police Casualty Bureau members, the Resource Management Unit which mobilised them and others who offered help for their selfless dedication to duty.

The call handlers in the CCC deal with a large volume of work and these sorts of unnecessary calls can be a drain on their time when there could be somebody with a genuine emergency trying to get through.

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The three hour event was organised to raise public awareness and make people think before they dial. It reached a potential audience of 2.65 million people on Twitter and 150,000 on Facebook.

LICE

John Flynn, Head of Contact Management, said: “The pressure that police call handling operators are under cannot be underestimated.

“I once heard a quote along the lines that ‘if your house is on fire ring the fire brigade; if you fall out of a tree and break your leg, phone the ambulance service; for everything else ring the police’.

The CCC often receives calls from members of the public seeking help around issues that could be dealt with by the council, Environment Agency or Action Fraud.

“Recently in Wiltshire a man called 999 at 1.30am saying he needed officers to help him as he had just arrived home to find a cat laying in wait for him.

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One caller rang in to complain that their bin collection had been late that morning; another had simply called in error by ‘pocket dialling’.

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As part of efforts to ease the demand a “tweetathon” offered a glimpse into the world of the CCC.

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With over 72,000 emergency calls and 320,000 non-emergency calls received last year (1 January – 31 December 2016), the demand on the team’s services is massive, and managing that is crucial.

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THE Crime and Communications Centre (CCC) is home to one of the busiest teams in Wiltshire Police.

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“He was too afraid to get out of his car because the cat jumps up and won’t let him into his house.

He seemed genuinely terrified of the cat.

“The operator offered to stay on the phone while he walked to the front door, but he refused to get out of his car until officers arrived. When told this wasn’t going to happen he said he would call 101.

“He got through to another member of the team who gave suitable advice around this not being a police matter.

“This is one of the many bizarre calls we get from the public and it highlights that we really need to re-educate the public about what the police service can and cannot do.”

■ Calls from the mundane to the bizarre, humorous to incredibly sad – see Pages 6-7 ■ Tweetbeat looks at reaction to the terrorist attacks in London and Manchester – see Page 32

Summer 2017 | Page 5

NEWS

Caught on camera: calls ranging from the mundane to the bizarre, humorous to incredibly sad

Incident controllers at HQ have been filmed for Channel 4 documentary series 999: What’s Your Emergency? Ben Holloway spoke to some of the people involved.

EARLIER this year, the team from 999: What’s Your Emergency? filmed the work of our officers and staff for the latest series of the show.

As well as following cops on the front line, the crew spent 13 weeks in the Crime and Communications Centre (CCC) in Devizes, filming our incident controllers as the calls came in, an experience which, according to staff, was far less disruptive than you might think.

“The process was pretty seamless,” said Insp Paul Saunders, one of the Force Incident Managers (FIMs) in the CCC. “There was one camera operator for the majority of the time and she integrated with the teams very well, to the point that you didn’t really know she was here.

“It very quickly became normal for the camera to

be in the room and it didn’t get in the way of our day-to-day business.

“They were very professional and seemed genuinely interested in the stories coming into the CCC.” “They were brilliant,” said Joe McShane, one of the incident controllers who was filmed. “Lucy was very calm and reassuring and had a great knack of putting everyone at ease. All they did was put a microphone on us, set up a camera and then let us get on with the job.”

But for some, the process didn’t end there.

After the initial filming, the crew then had to craft the footage into a story, which meant follow-up filming to capture the thoughts of the staff and officers involved.

“The production company has several teams working on different themes for, say, community policing, or mental health,” said incident controller Rachel Woodbridge.

“After they’ve picked the themes they want to cover, they then shoot further interviews with staff to elaborate on the thought processes that CCC operators go through when assessing calls.”

For Rachel, the follow-up filming lasted three hours.

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NEWS Holly Goodall

they deal with it; and the human side of the job.

“I also hope that it helps the public to understand how the call takers connect to the physical front line.

“In many ways we are the front line, albeit in a nice air-conditioned building. Nothing gets done without that first input from the CCC.

Rachel Woodbridge

“At first it seems very daunting,” she said.

“But the crew were brilliant, and made you feel very relaxed.”

“It will be great for the public to see what we deal with on a day-to-day basis,” said Holly Goodall. “I’ve been filmed for two follow-up interviews, which have been intense, but great experiences.

You do have to be careful what you say sometimes, because you’re never sure exactly what is going to be shown.”

Paul hopes that the programme will show exactly what the CCC does: “The wide range of calls that the operators receive, from the mundane to the bizarre, the humorous to the incredibly sad; the abuse that they sometimes get from the public and the professional way in which Joe McShane

“What is done here in the initial seconds and minutes has a significant effect on the final outcome of the incident. A lot of hard work is done in here and it is not always noticed.

“The benefit of the show will be that the staff get to show what they can do and tell their story.”

Summer 2017 | Page 7

NEWS

Blue light show is back in business The Emergency Services Show returns with a new home for 2017 - and there’s still time for you to get involved

Committee roll call ■ Chris Harvey (fire), Chair ■ Mark Levitt (police), Secretary ■ Wayne Jones (fire), Treasurer ■ Hannah Thomson (police), PR and Media ■ Louise Knox (fire), PR and Media ■ PC Mandie Ball (police), committee member ■ Michelle Godwin (police), committee member ■ Andrew Newman (ambulance), committee member ■ Richard Claridge (ambulance), committee member ■ Andrew Stagg (MoD), committee member volunteers to help run the day, set up the stalls and generally help to make the show the success it is.

HANNAH THOMSON Communications Officer

AFTER a break in 2016, the blue light show returns this year at a new venue - Cotswold Airport, formerly known as Kemble Airfield.

This comes after Hullavington, the shows previous home, was sold by the Ministry of Defence. Since then the committee has been hard at work in not only finding a new venue, but making sure that this year’s show is bigger and better than ever.

It all kicks off on Sunday 3 September, from 10am until 4pm.

Attracting thousands of visitors every year, the action-packed day is an excellent opportunity for departments across the Force to showcase their services and increase public confidence in the police and the work of our partners.

With police car and fire engine rides, police dog displays and many other stands and demonstrations – including the chance for the public to meet and

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greet teams from the Wiltshire and Bristol air ambulances – the day is a chance to inform the public about the services we provide, like 101 and 999, as well as giving them an insight into the work of the blue light services.

The show became a charitable trust (charity number 1162704) in 2015.

Proceeds from the show, which are more than £115,000 so far - are donated to charities that support the emergency services.

With lots of volunteering opportunities why not join the team and help raise funds for local blue light organisations and charities?

If you’d like to volunteer please contact me in Corporate Communications and Engagement.

Picture below: Siobhan Boyle Photography

This is where you come in With just ten volunteers from across fire, police and ambulance services, the committee can’t do it alone.

It relies on

L-R: Michelle Godwin, PC Mandie Ball, Andrew Newman, Chris Harvey, Mark Levitt

NEWS

I hope his victims can move on now, says Nicola MARK JONES Media Officer

THE detective who led the investigation into a Swindon man who sexually assaulted two young girls over 20 years says the victims’ bravery helped catch their abuser.

Eric Pyle from Toothill was jailed for ten years at Swindon Crown Court after admitting 12 sex offences against children and three counts of making indecent images of children.

Pyle, 61, carried out the first offences on one child between 1990 and 1993 and the second offences on the other child between 2008 and 2010.

Det Con Nicola Ainsley, pictured, said: “We welcome this sentencing, as it

Kamal Said, 20, of Northolt, Middlesex, was sentenced at Swindon Crown Court after pleading guilty to being concerned in the supply of class A drugs.

In April, officers from the DCT conducted a welfare visit to a vulnerable drug user in the Faringdon Road area. They found Said and recovered a large kitchen knife nearby. Said was arrested and taken to Gablecross for further searches.

During the search, officers found a small amount of herbal cannabis and more than £300 in his underwear. It was also believed Said had concealed drugs internally but he refused to consent to an examination and X-ray at the Great Western Hospital.

A 21-year-old man has been jailed for three years and 11 months for a street robbery in Trowbridge.

reflects the seriousness of these offences and the impact they have had on the children involved.

Spencer Girt, 21, of Trowbridge, pleaded guilty at Swindon Crown Court.

“I’d like to thank each of the victims for their bravery in coming forward and recounting what is obviously a very distressing and traumatic time in their lives.

Det Con Kev Golledge of Central CID said: “We were able to get a detailed description from the victim and local enquiries led us swiftly to Girt’s address where we found the stolen items.

“Although nothing will erase the awful memories and the long lasting effects that Pyle’s abuse has no doubt had on his victims, I hope it gives them some form of closure and enables them to move on with their lives, knowing justice has been done.”

Drug dealer who failed to co-operate with police jailed for four years and seven months AN investigation by the Dedicated Crime Team (DCT) in Swindon resulted in a drug dealer being sentenced to four years and seven months in June.

Street robber goes back behind bars

Officers were allowed by magistrates to detain him with extensions authorised if necessary, so the drugs could be recovered. Eventually, he produced a number of wraps of class A drugs.

Said was already on bail for drug offences in Wiltshire following an arrest in December 2016 when he was found at a vulnerable drug user’s address in the town centre. On this occasion, he had a large knife, heroin and crack cocaine worth about £4,340, as well as about £500 in cash.

PC Matt Dickens said: “This is an example of proactive work by the DCT, targeting the most dangerous in our communities.

“Said clearly took steps to avoid detection, however the dedication and perseverance of officers paid off.”

In January, armed with a knife and glass bottle, he threatened a 23-yearold Westbury man as he walked along Bythesea Road.

“Only eight weeks earlier, Girt had been released from prison having served a three year sentence for street robbery in Bath. It is extremely disappointing when offenders are released from prison and continue to offend.”

Longer sentence for rampaging inmates TWO inmates who caused more than £30,000 of damage to Erlestoke Prison have been sentenced to further time in prison.

Greg Coombes, 27, originally from Bristol, and serving a sentence for GBH, was sentenced to a further 28 months after pleading guilty to criminal damage and affray.

Adam Taylor, 25, originally from Liverpool and serving a sentence for possession with intent to supply, was sentenced to a further 24 months after also pleading guilty.

Det Con Kev Golledge said: “This behaviour is totally unacceptable and I would like to make it clear that, as in this case, the Prison Service will work with police to ensure that prisoners who behave in this way will be punished.

“As a result of their actions, these two men will now spend a significantly longer time behind bars.”

Summer 2017 | Page 9

NEWS

Outstanding examples of the “As always, I am

CHARLOTTE LAWRENCE

THE dedication and bravery of officers, staff, Specials and members of the public was recognised at the Force awards ceremony held at the Corn Exchange in Devizes.

Thirty six people were rewarded for their bravery, dedication, determination and kindness: outstanding examples of the great work done every day by members of Wiltshire Police.

Chief Constable Mike Veale said: “These awards are a fantastic opportunity to recognise our outstanding colleagues who have gone above and beyond. It’s not just about our brilliant frontline officers, but all the vital roles that make up our police family.”

Angus Macpherson, Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, said: “I am continually impressed and inspired by the stories of bravery and dedication at our Force awards.

“It’s particularly lovely to see a member of one of our minority communities who has been a stalwart volunteer and has carried out incredible work, despite facing many challenges.

“The recognition of the fantastic teamwork of the fleet team behind the scenes alongside all the incredible youth engagement work in building up the police cadets team is also so well deserved.

“As always, I am in awe of everyone here.”

AWESOME: Chief Constable Mike Veale with the proud recipients at the Force awards.

Picture by Dominic Parkes Photography

FLEET TEAM IS HONOURED FOR GOING THE EXTRA MILE TO KEEP THE SHOW ON THE ROAD

With Fleetwood Mac’s The Chain in the background, team members - who have 240 years of combined service - stepped up to the stage in recognition of their professionalism and team work.

During the last year they have faced many challenges and changes.

Workshop wizards: Jon Gay, Anthea Benyon, Alan Filkins, Roger Billett, Tony Billet, Ali Tilley and Andy Frost.

Mike and the mechanics: The Chief with the fleet team after presenting them with their certificates.

Picture by Dominic Parkes Photography

Alan Filkins, Alistair Tilley, Andrew Frost, Anthea Benyon, Anthony Billet, Edward Dolman, Gary Davis, Jonathan Gay, Keith Padfield, Mamata Rai, Martin Strange, Robert Clark, Roger Billett, David Goddard

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For the first time, the Fleet team made an appearance at the awards.

It was nominated for an Outstanding Teamwork award.

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e great work happening daily in awe of everyone here.”

Angus Macpherson

Cool and professional: PC Luke Atkinson. Picture courtesy Diane Vose, Wiltshire Gazette & Herald

Late one evening in December PC Atkinson was called to a home where a man had said he had just killed his wife.

Once the man had been detained, PC Atkinson checked that the children weren’t injured and removed them from the scene.

As a result of PC Atkinson and the team’s efforts, the woman survived her significant injuries and the man was charged with attempted murder and pleaded guilty in court. He is awaiting sentencing.

However, despite these uncertainties they have transformed their approach and style with their positive attitude and responded with good humour, flexibility and dedication.

Each member of the team has been willing to go the extra mile by working extra hours, providing cover for others and delivering a professional, no fuss, high performing service in order to keep vehicles on the road for our operational police officers. They have fully embraced and engaged with the Chief Constable’s values and behaviours.

Examples of their commitment: ■ A Swindon vehicle was awaiting parts which arrived late on a Friday. The technician, unable to stay that evening, came in to work on the Saturday morning to fit the parts to get the vehicle back in service for the weekend ■ One Saturday morning an armed response vehicle was reported to have a puncture. One of the technicians was

contacted and immediately agreed to come in and fit a new tyre so the car could remain operational

LIGHTNING REACTIONS SAVE SUICIDAL MAN

This team works well together thanks to the humility, openness and “can do” attitude of its leader – Dave Goddard.

Dave may at times say he is a reluctant leader. However his style is what has laid the foundations for great performance.

It’s sometimes difficult to appreciate the work of our support staff. However this remarkable change in team efforts and focus on the front line deserves acknowledgement and reward.

CALM IN A STORM PC Luke Atkinson PC Luke Atkinson’s calm approach and exceptional professionalism when faced with an horrific incident was rewarded with a Chief Constable’s Outstanding Teamwork award.

Outstanding people skills: PCs Rebecca Taylor and Phil Matthews. Picture courtesy Diane Vose, Wiltshire Gazette & Herald

PC Rebecca Taylor and PC Phil Matthews Rebecca Taylor and Phil Matthews were driving through Trowbridge when PC Taylor noticed a shadow on the bridge above.

Summer 2017 | Page 11

NEWS ■ Tom’s desire to help others extends to his colleagues. One of his PCSO colleagues had been successful in her application to become a police officer, but she was struggling with the fitness test. Tom and another team member helped by going to the gym almost every day with her, running the bleep test and giving her advice. This was all done in their own time and certainly paid off as she passed her test recently.

Supt Sue Austin said: “PC Crabtree, you are a model community officer and are congratulated for your commitment in putting the community first, taking personal responsibility and for your strong sense of professionalism.”

TOM’S KNOW-HOW ‘TRUMPED DEFENCE’

Incredibly dedicated: Tom Crabtree with Heather and Andy Cooper.

Picture courtesy Diane Vose, Wiltshire Gazette & Herald

They went to the bridge and found a man who wanted to end his life.

PC Taylor was able to build a rapport with him by having a conversation whilst PC Matthews contacted the relevant partner agencies to arrange some help.

The man then launched himself over the railing and, reacting extremely quickly, the officers caught hold of him and brought him back - despite him being extremely strong and determined.

The officers were able to develop their rapport calmly and safely and he then willingly accepted help.

Without the outstanding people skills displayed and the lightning reactions of these officers, this situation could have ended very differently.

MODEL OFFICER WINS DAN COOPER AWARD PC Tom Crabtree It was a special moment when PC Tom Crabtree stepped up to the stage to receive the Dan Cooper Memorial Award for outstanding service to the public.

Dan’s parents, Heather and Andy, were delighted to hand over this prestigious shield as Tom is such an excellent example of a probationer officer.

His work ethic, attitude and performance is exceptional for someone so young in service and he has shown incredible dedication to Wiltshire Police, which includes his commitment to keeping the public safe and satisfied.

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Tom is an officer every team needs.

His attitude towards his colleagues is outstanding and he lifts morale with his great sense of humour and respect for others.

He is always involved in team activities and has made himself an integral part of his team.

Some highlights of his work: ■ Tom is now the single point of contact in relation to victims of aggravated burglaries. He has provided them with reassurance, has made regular contact and created detailed maps and descriptions to be handed out ■ He doesn’t shy away from delivering difficult messages either and, on one occasion in particular, he had to deliver a particularly difficult message to the registered keeper of a vehicle involved in an incident, but did so clearly and concisely ■ An example of strong team work relates to an organised crime group targeting fruit machines. During a foot chase Tom was able to keep the control room and other colleagues updated on both the location and the suspect, which showed his determination to detain the suspect and lead his colleagues to a bag that the suspect had thrown ■ When dealing with anti-social behaviour, Tom does this in a way where not only does he try to move people on but he will also give them the time to try to educate them about how their behaviour affects others within the community

Outstanding creativity: Tom Phesse. Picture courtesy Diane Vose, Wiltshire Gazette & Herald

Tom Phesse When faced with a challenge Tom, one of the Force’s financial and asset investigators, is someone who most certainly rises to it. During a case concerning a drug trafficker found in possession of £12,000 and drugs worth £30,000, Tom used new legislation under the Proceeds of Crime Act to detain property for confiscation. The procedure was tortuous and had never before been used in Wiltshire.

The defence insisted that confiscation was not appropriate. Tom persevered and produced a first class 84-page comprehensive confiscation paper.

Faced with this undisputable, wellpresented paper the defence barrister capitulated and wrote to the crown court that “Mr Phesse is correct” and had “trumped the defence”.

Tom’s report explained the law relating to “bringing forward” a previous benefit figure, again ground breaking for Wiltshire.

NEWS This is venturing into uncharted waters, but it is an excellent example of courage and lawful audacity against formidable obstacles.

Tom gave evidence and the court accepted his figures. The court made a confiscation order with a benefit figure of more than £80,000 and ordered the defendant to pay in excess of £17,000.

Tom showed outstanding creativity and innovation, coupled with his outstanding knowledge, interpretation of law, administration skills, report writing and ability to present in crown court: a deserving recipient of the Chief Constable’s Certificate of Excellence.

FARZANA’S YEARS OF VOLUNTARY SERVICE

She is a perfect example of the support we need to help us develop our police service to be more reflective of our communities, creating a partnership which will have a significant and positive impact on how communities see the police, and enabling us to embrace those hard-toreach communities.

Positivity in our partners will then spread through our communities and allow us to open doors.

Farzana is a truly inspirational woman and the certificate is in recognition of her many years’ service and tenacious attitude.

CHANGING THE LIVES OF YOUNG PEOPLE

PC Rebecca Taylor PC Philip Matthews Certificate of Excellence Tom Phesse Retired Det Insp Marj Maccallum PC Robert Poile PC Luke Atkinson PC Gareth Ivett Outstanding Teamwork Alan Filkins Alistair Tilley Andrew Frost Edward Dolman

Over the last ten years Farzana Saker has arranged and facilitated the two day community engagement events for our initial police learning and development programme and for PCSOs.

Anthony Billet Gary Davis Jonathan Gay Keith Padfield

Farzana has presented on the Islamic faith, as well as arranging guests from other cultures and communities, such as Sikh, Polish and Jamaican, alongside arranging visits to a mosque and a gurdwara (or Sikh temple).

Mamata Rai Robert Clark David Goddard Sgt Chris Hitchcock Graeme Deeley

She has had a significant impact on the development of our officers and staff, helping to build community links and break down any perceived prejudices that may have existed between the community and the police.

Caroline McKeaveney Certificate of Recognition Farzana Saker Excellence in Partnership Working Tireless worker: Sgt Steve McGlynn. Picture courtesy Diane Vose, Wiltshire Gazette & Herald

Sgt Steve McGlynn Over the three years that Sgt McGlynn has led on youth engagement for the Force he has worked tirelessly, and with much dedication, often under pressure and to tight deadlines, to provide a service to schools and ultimately to the young people of Swindon and Wiltshire.

Sgt McGlynn has been inspirational in delivering a number of key ideas and projects such as youth engagement officers, Op Polite and World of Work.

Additionally the introduction of police cadet units across the county continues to go from strength to strength, with excellent feedback from the cadets and their parents about how the project is positively changing the lives of young people.

Truly inspirational: Farzana Saker. Picture courtesy Diane Vose, Wiltshire Gazette & Herald

Chief Constable’s Commendation

Anthea Benyon

Farzana Saker

Farzana has had her own challenges in working with the police. Against all adversity she has continued to work to build links between the local community and Wiltshire Police.

ROLL OF HONOUR

His commitment, professionalism and strong sense of personal responsibility are just some of the reasons he was awarded an Excellence in Partnership Working award.

Sgt Steve McGlynn Dan Cooper Memorial Award PC Tom Crabtree Long Service Tessa Armstrong Rebecca Booth Long Service and Good Conduct PC Amanda Conn PC Gavin Brewster Det Sgt Emma Spooner Insp Mark Wilkinson T/Insp Mark Kent PC Joanne Phelps Det Con Helen Wallen Insp Matt Armstrong Insp Nick Mawson In the roll of honour in the spring Firstbeat Lee Armit was mistakenly listed as a PC. We would like to apologise to Lee, who has been a sergeant for nine years, and a Det Sgt for the last six years.

Summer 2017 | Page 13

IN FOCUS

We value our volunteers WILTSHIRE Police celebrated Volunteers’ Week in June with a number of videos expressing messages of thanks.

The annual celebration recognises the fantastic contribution that millions of volunteers make across the UK. Videos were shared across our social media channels alongside a number of case studies throughout the week, all highlighting the value of our volunteers.

We currently have more than 3,800 volunteers working in various roles across the Special Constabulary, Force and watch schemes. They all support us in keeping our communities safe across Wiltshire and Swindon.

The response from members of the public was one of high praise and there has since been an increased interest in volunteering, with many taking to social media to ask how they can get involved.

Online safety Special Constabulary

Chaplains Call quality appraisers

Cadet leaders

Lorry Watch

Restorative justice facilitators Rural crime support

VOLUNTEERS

Watch scheme processors

Stop search scrutiny panel

Bobby Van

Firearms and licensing support Independent custody visitors Neighbourhood Watch

Page 14 | Summer 2017

Community Speed Watch

Humane animal dispatchers Police information point

ESTATES SPECIAL

Efficiency, not austerity, is driving our estate strategy Which police buildings do we need and which can we manage without? In recent months senior officers and staff have been seeking to answer that question. Now they have. In this four-page special, Firstbeat hears the views of PCC Angus Macpherson, who owns the estate, and Chief Constable Mike Veale. On the centre pages we have mapped out the locations we are keeping – and those we are not.

Room for improvement: Angus at the back of HQ

Dark and dingy: a corridor that’s short on natural light

we can make better use of the building.

PAUL DEAL

Communications Officer

COMMISSIONER Angus Macpherson is taking a walk around HQ. There’s a dingy, dimly lit corridor in shades of beige.

Outside by the portable building known as the “blue box” the vista is equally uninspiring: a skip, an old bike rack, flat roofs, the tower block.

“The estates team has made the best of our ageing estate, but now a major investment is needed. Perhaps we need to build a new HQ that is fit for 21st Century policing. We have the land.

Perhaps we should put up a new building and dispose of the old one.

“Gablecross in Swindon is a Public Finance Initiative building, so our options are limited, but we continue to look at how

“We have other buildings that are tired and underused. We have had an excess of buildings for many years. Buildings that are just used to store stuff and where staff rarely go; buildings to which the public don’t have access.

“Tisbury is a good example. We’ve made a big saving in running costs by closing the station and using the Nadder Centre as a touchdown point for CPT. “As for the idea of building a new custody unit near Warminster, that would have been an irresponsible use of public money. Fewer people are being arrested given changes in the law on bail reducing our need for cells.

“We are working hard with NHS partners on the triage team and improved places of safety to ensure that, wherever possible, people in a mental health crisis are not taken into our custody.

“With our dedicated Prisoner Transport Team taking detainees from Salisbury to

Melksham, the Chief and I agree that we should stick with Melksham custody and Gablecross.

“I have said I want to see a 20 per cent reduction in the cost of running our estate over the next five years.

“Every pound wasted on a building we don’t need is a pound that could be spent on officers and staff going out on patrol.

“This is not about austerity. It’s about efficiency and about recognising that doing things the way we have always done them is not efficient or effective. This is about being more efficient with the money we have got.

“We have invested heavily in mobile technology, so that people no longer have to sit at a desk, sharpen their pencil and write their reports in triplicate.

“We have asked ourselves ‘why do we need this or that building?’ Increasingly, as our culture changes, we find that what we need is digital technology, locker space and a private space for interviews.

“We will share buildings wherever we can with our public service partners, and encourage our frontline colleagues to do their office work where they can meet the public.”

Summer 2017 | Page 15

ESTATES SPECIAL

Mapping out a brighter polic EIGHT COMMUNITY POLICING TEAM HUBS 1. Headquarters, Devizes The HQ site is massively inefficient and simply unfit for 21st Century policing.

We spend about ÂŁ1m a year in running costs: heating, lighting and cleaning a building which is under-used.

PRESENT

6. Royal Wootton Bassett 2. Gablecross, Swindon

We have the technology, but not the open hot desk areas and meeting spaces.

Instead we have corridors full of small offices.

3. Monkton Park, Chippenham

6

Devizes makes sense as a central location for Wiltshire Police. HQ will gain more operational policing. Tri-Force teams will be joined by Community Policing Team officers and staff from Devizes Borough, turning HQ into a CPT hub. Operational support services will continue to be based here.

FUTURE

A feasibility study will look at the options for the estate. Should we renovate these tired buildings, or consider a new development?

2

8. T

3

1. Headquarters, Devizes

1

4

The Commissioner has asked the Chief Constable to lead work on this project.

8

5

2. Gablecross, Swindon

8

Will continue as at present as a CPT hub with one of our two custody units attached.

FUTURE

7

3. Monkton Park, Chippenham

8. Ame

continue as at FUTURE Will present as a CPT hub in premises shared with our Wiltshire Council partners.

4. Trowbridge Will continue as at present as a CPT hub in the town’s Police Station, but with the possibility of sharing County Hall with our Wiltshire Council partners to be explored at some stage.

FUTURE

4. Trowbridge

5. Warminster

7. Bourne Hill, Salisbu

Page 16 | Summer 2017

ESTATES SPECIAL

cing future

Tidworth

esbury

5. Warminster Warminster Police Station is in a terrible condition and has been listed as our top priority for replacement.

PRESENT

Warminster will continue to be a CPT hub. We will explore with both our blue light and council partners the options for a suitable base in the town, either on the existing site or at a new, shared location.

FUTURE

6. Royal Wootton Bassett (RWB) PRESENT of an overhaul.

This station is in need

RWB will continue to be a CPT hub. We will explore the possibilities of sharing a building in the town with partners.

FUTURE

Out and about: laptops allow us to work in public places

CUSTODY Since the closure of Salisbury custody in June 2014 detainees have been taken to Melksham custody by a dedicated Prisoner Transport Team. The Commissioner and the Chief Constable concluded that two units - one being Gablecross – were sufficient. Consideration was given to building a new unit in the Warminster area which would have led to the closure of Melksham.

PRESENT

The Commissioner and the Chief have agreed that, against a backdrop of falling demand for custody, they cannot justify spending up to £11m of public money on a custody unit south of Melksham when it would provide only a marginal improvement of 15 minutes in the travel time from the Salisbury area whilst at the same time increasing journey times from locations to the north and west of Melksham.

FUTURE

7. Bourne Hill, Salisbury Salisbury CPT hub is efficiently sharing space with Wiltshire Council in this city centre location.

PRESENT

Salisbury CPT, and the Prisoner Transport Team, will continue to operate from the Bourne Hill hub

FUTURE

8. Tidworth Amesbury and Tidworth police stations are just nine miles apart.

Both towns are served by the same Community Policing Team.

PRESENT

We only need one CPT hub for these towns. The Army re-basing programme, together with projected future demand, means that Tidworth is the optimal location.

FUTURE

TOUCHDOWN POINTS IN COMMUNITIES We have a number of small police stations which are under-used, but cost money to maintain. Tisbury Police Station, for example, cost £25,000 pa in running costs. Senior officers have indicated where touchdown points would be useful and we have shared that list with our council and blue light partners to help identify suitable locations.

PRESENT

Officers and staff have been equipped with smartphones and laptops to enable them to work in public spaces, thus improving police visibility. Work is underway to add police forms to these mobile devices.

FUTURE

Sharing sites with partners improves visibility and is more cost efficient. In Tisbury, for example, where we are now using the council-run Nadder Centre and have closed the police station, we have saved 95 per cent of our running costs. We will work with local authorities and other public service partners, to share premises in the following locations: ■ Amesbury ■ Calne ■ Malmesbury ■ Pewsey ■ Westbury ■ Marlborough ■ Alderbury ■ Cricklade ■ Highworth ■ Wilton We already share premises with partners at the following locations: ■ Bradford on Avon ■ Springfield campus, Corsham ■ Mere ■ Swindon North Point ■ Swindon West Point ■ Swindon town centre

FRONT COUNTER SERVICES The intention is to continue with front counter services at the following locations:

FUTURE

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Gablecross Devizes HQ Trowbridge Melksham Bourne Hill, Salisbury Monkton Park, Chippenham Marlborough (limited hours)

ury

Summer 2017 | Page 17

ESTATES SPECIAL

Barrier to progress: HQ is simply not fit for purpose, believes Mike Veale

Work is what you do - not where you go PAUL DEAL

Communications Officer

MIKE VEALE is taking a walk around the back end of HQ. He’s not impressed by what he sees.

“I have a strong belief,” he says, “that if we are going to improve the service we offer to the public, along with the morale, the culture, the leadership, the engagement and interaction with staff, we need to make sure we’ve got a world class approach to the estate. Whilst the estates team has made good progress with hot desk areas at Gablecross and HQ, I’m delighted that the Commissioner is making a major investment to provide buildings fit for 21st Century policing.

“There’s plenty of academic research that will tell you the working environment does help to change the culture, build trust and confidence within the workplace and improve the morale, the motivation and the productivity of the workforce.

“Headquarters is not fit for purpose and is run at a huge expense to the public purse – something like £1m a year.”

So what might a 21st Century HQ look like? “Open plan with modern domestic facilities and a modern café with health and wellbeing at the centre of its design, environmentally friendly offices with lots of natural light. It’s a matter for the Commissioner, but why wouldn’t you

Page 18 | Summer 2017

bring the public in? A bit like the atrium at County Hall.

“Headquarters may look significantly different in the future. So as we modernise, develop new commercial relationships, collaborate and work in partnership, the estate footprint will have to change.

“Whatever we design will need to be adaptable, flexible and agile enough for an organisation that is transforming itself.

As we develop our ideas we need to try to predict what policing looks like in ten, 15 and even 20 years into the future.

We need to involve the workforce in its design, as much as we are able, so that the organisation is built from service delivery up and not from the senior leaders down.”

The other buildings in line for major investment are Warminster, Royal Wootton Bassett and either Tidworth or Amesbury. “All of them,” says the Chief, “typify an outdated police building that is not conducive to the modern culture we are trying to create.

“The old dilapidated police house style stations have got to go because they were designed as houses for the 1960s, not for the 21st Century.

“What police stations can very often do is to decrease visibility. So if you’ve got a cosy police station in a place like Tisbury, it

Rust belt: The Chief at the garage block that has seen better days

would be quite easy for officers and staff to go there, have a cup of tea and sit behind closed doors and do their paperwork.

“We’ve now got the technology to allow officers and staff to work in public spaces and be more visible and accessible.

“Sitting outside a coffee shop the other day, and walking around the nearby area, I spoke to 15-20 people and probably saw 150 people. I was holding a development meeting with Supt Charlie Armstrong and, the following week, an appraisal with ACC Kier Pritchard.

“While we were out we dealt with a distressed woman and helped another guy with a mental health illness.

“We obviously would not even have seen these vulnerable people if I had been sat in my office which would have been the easy thing to do. That said, our staff do need a safe haven so we will obviously build that into our thinking.”

Summing up, the Chief says: “We are more responsive, more mobile, more visible, more technology-enabled, easier to engage with and communicate with.

“Our adage is ‘work is what you do, not the place where you go’.”

What’s your view on our estate? Have your say. Go to Firstpoint and search for estates.

IN FOCUS

Our friends in the north Together we stand, say Wiltshire officers

“I found GMP such a positive force,” said Adam. “Its HQ was full of photos of officers doing good work, positive messages on the walls and there was a buzz about the place.

“It felt that, in their hour of need, they had rolled their sleeves up and done what needed to be done without complaint. Not one officer I spoke to complained about the hours they were working, despite them being knackered.”

Meanwhile, back in Wiltshire, Salford-born PC Steve Carroll was determined to do something to honour those who had died in the city that means so much to him.

Expressing solidarity: PCs Jamie Ball (left) and Steve Carroll present ACC Vanessa Jardine with the shield

After writing to senior officers asking how he could pay tribute, Steve was presented with a shield with the words ‘Together We Stand’ to take to GMP as a symbol of solidarity. He made the journey with PC Jamie Ball.

Showing they care: tributes to the Manchester victims cover St Anne’s Square

BEN HOLLOWAY and SAM HOWLETT ONE morning in May, the country woke to learn that 22 people, including children, had been killed, with many more injured, in a terrorist attack in Manchester.

Forces across the country sent officers to Greater Manchester Police (GMP) as part of the mutual aid response. Among the eight sent from Wiltshire Police were T/ Sgt Adam Leakey and Sgt Liam Winstone, who were deployed outside the Etihad Stadium.

Adam said: “Our duty was to provide community reassurance to the 50,000-strong crowd attending two Robbie Williams concerts, assisting stewards with bag searches and ensuring the crowds dispersed safely and quickly.”

“As the crowd was leaving on the Saturday we received news of the attack on London Bridge,” said Liam.

“This was 11 days into our tour but everyone switched on and managed the safety of the crowd firmly and empathetically without raising any alarm.

“Afterwards, we were called back to GMP’s HQ. We knew this would impact on the One Love concert the next day.

“I canvassed the team and everyone agreed we would stay. In the meeting, the superintendent in charge asked each of the sergeants if they could go away and ask their people if they could stay.

“We informed him there was no need and we were staying. I think this gave a very good impression of Wiltshire Police.”

Steve recalled: “ACC Vanessa Jardine said if it wasn’t for all the police forces helping them with mutual aid, they wouldn’t have been able to do it.”

Steve and Jamie also visited St Anne’s Square, where the public had been leaving floral tributes. Steve said: “It was surreal: it was peaceful, quiet and a very sobering moment on a normally very vibrant, busy street that everybody walks through.

“We could just stand in silence and appreciate all the love that Manchester has got. How they’ve come together is amazing.”

■ Liam Winstone has written a moving and compelling account of his time in Manchester. Please go to the SIREN app on your smartphone and search for “Long Reads”

Summer 2017 | Page 19

IN FOCUS

It’s good to talk

Spreading the word: Sarah Greenman and Chris Pugh

PAUL DEAL

Communications Officer

A 15-year-old girl trashes her bedroom.

Her parents, who come home and discover the damage, call 999. PC Sarah Greenman responds.

Sarah, who’s based in Trowbridge, has received training by Restorative Together and decides to try some impromptu restorative justice.

She says: “Having attention deficit hyperactivity disorder - or ADHD – the girl finds it difficult to control her emotions.

She craves routine, and doesn’t like it when her parents aren’t around. She hates the build-up of emotion, and the impact on her parents, whom she loves.

“It seemed wrong to take her into custody, so I asked her parents if we could all sit down and discuss it. I thought it would be good for the mum to hear her daughter say she loved them. Talking it out was really worthwhile.

“My level one training in RJ has helped me to recognise whether it’s appropriate to use the method or whether a longerterm approach is needed, led by the Restorative Together team and involving trained volunteer facilitators.

Page 20 | Summer 2017

“I’ve recently referred an incident in which five youths admitted daubing graffiti in the Shires shopping centre in Trowbridge.

The damage is estimated at £800.

To discover the power of RJ go to YouTube and search for this Wiltshire Police video: Restorative Justice V2

“I suggested to their parents and the management that we should bring both sides together, so the offenders could understand the impact of their actions.

“I told the Shires that we could have charged the boys and handed out youth cautions. Instead, they got conditional cautions – and the condition was that they must engage with RJ. Had they not cooperated they would have gone to court and that could have led to fines.

“I would definitely encourage colleagues to use RJ. We go to the same properties, offer words of advice in neighbourhood disputes, and are called back time after time. Spending a bit more time you can get to the core issues which means you won’t have to go back.

“The process empowers victims and demonstrates we are much more victimled.”

PCSO Chris Pugh, a youth engagement officer at Trowbridge, is equally enthusiastic. He says: “When I go into schools and they tell me they are having big problems I suggest RJ. “It can help young people to understand who is being affected by their actions. And the effect of their behaviour can ripple out from the victim to family and friends.”

Carolyn Deverall, out of court disposals manager, has been seconded to work with Inger Lowater and Lauren Irwin in Restorative Together, which is sponsored

by PCC Angus Macpherson.

She says: “Under changes being brought in by the Home Office and Ministry of Justice, RJ is going to become an important part of how forces operate within out of court disposals. This training is integral to support that move.”

IN FOCUS

Tackling crime before it happens

Reaching out to communities (from left): Insp Doug Downing; Pippa McVeigh, Crime Prevention Manager; Millis Miller, E-Learning Development Trainer; Sgt Paul Harvey, Sgt Steve McGlynn; Insp James Brain and Supt Phil Staynings

VICKY CRAIG

Communications Officer

NOBODY thinks they’ll be a victim of crime until, of course, it happens. But if you’re clued in to the criminals’ tricks and tactics you can stay one step ahead. This is the philosophy of our new-look crime prevention department.

Crime prevention through communities is a key priority. The team hopes to identify core volunteer roles which can add value to preventative policing.

A new online safety initiative run in partnership with the Bobby Van Trust has recently been launched and is running successfully with volunteers across Wiltshire.

The crime prevention team wants to work more closely with Neighbourhood Watch and build on a mutually beneficial relationship, assisting and encouraging them to work actively with the police and other partner agencies to help reduce crime in their areas.

The development of a youth engagement strategy will raise awareness, promote

safety messages and allow young people to make informed decisions.

Special Constables are a core part of our community policing teams, giving their time, skills and knowledge for free.

This valued resource allows the Force to go over and beyond the requirements of core policing and there is an aspiration to increase our Special Constables to 500 members.

Head of Crime Prevention, Supt Phil Staynings, said: “The new team will use an intelligence-led approach to problem solving and work with partners to identify, resolve and evaluate challenges in relation to best practice.

“The desired outcome is fewer victims, fewer offences with an overall reduction in police demand. The Force’s priorities now fully align with the national crime prevention strategy.

“Working together with partners, we can target those who are at high risk of a life of crime and equally recognise those who are most vulnerable within our communities.

“Interventions with troubled families and known drug and alcohol users are examples of targeted vulnerable groups. Force programmes and intervention with partner agencies allows effective engagement to take place.”

Wiltshire Police takes an holistic approach to tackling offenders, identifying the most appropriate intervention.

The public can be provided with crime prevention advice whilst tailored advice can be provided to victims and their guardians. Toolkits for use by all front line officers will be made available to help prevent crime and protect the public.

Summer 2017 | Page 21

LIFE

Shining a light on the resource decision ma

What is the Resource Management Panel (RMP)? What is the reasoning behind specific pos Communications Officer Shea D’Arcy met the people at the heart of the decisions to find ou RMP process is becoming more open and transparent

The people on the panel: Cliff Fuller, UNISON; Jonathan Freegard, T/HR Manager Strategic Workforce Planning; Gemma Mullan, HR Manager; Supt Phil Staynings, Head of Crime Commander; Supt Craig Holden, Head of Public Protection; Sarah King, Head of People Services and Development; Supt Chris Chammings, Central Hub Commander; Paula Collye Head of People Services and Development; Supt Adrian Burt, Head of Crime Standards and Justice; Karen Howlett, Head of People Development; Supt Deb Smith, Head of Crime; L Police Federation Branch Secretary.

THE long-standing forum, attended by departmental heads and staff associations, addresses resourcing needs across the organisation and promotions from the ranks of constable to inspector.

The staff survey has continued to provide positive feedback and confidence about the promotion process.

With a view to continuing positive engagement with all staff, a continuous improvement review was commissioned to understand the feeling from some staff that the process lacks transparency and clarity.

Resourcing decisions impact heavily on individuals and teams, and it is important that there is a balance between the needs of the organisation and those of the individuals, where possible, to support work-life balance and health and wellbeing.

Supt Chris Chammings, Central Hub Operational Commander, said: “A lack of

Page 22 | Summer 2017

communication from RMP has admittedly left many with a negative perception of the process.

“It is therefore important that, from now on, the process becomes more transparent and consistent and that decisions are communicated better across the Force.

“The panel has decided that the head of department is now responsible for communicating any change, including posting or promotion, that affects their member of staff as soon as practicable and within 48 hours of an RMP. “Once the member of staff has been made aware, the confirmed changes will be published for the whole Force to view.

“With the new processes being put in place and the RMP becoming more transparent, we hope that the negative perceptions can be improved.”

Sarah King, Head of People Services and Development and chair of the fortnightly panel, said: “The purpose of RMP is to oversee and agree both the business principles and posting decisions for officers.

“The panel provides a forum in which fair, transparent and consistent resourcing decisions are made in line with the values and behaviours framework and code of ethics.

“It ensures resources are aligned with organisational and service demand, and will always consider threat, harm and risk.

“In addition, consideration is given to individual circumstances and wellbeing, public expectation, cost, qualifications, skill set, professional accreditation and training investments that the organisation has made, or is planning to make for each individual.

LIFE

e Force akers

stings and promotions? ut more and uncover how the

e Prevention; Supt Sue Austin, South and East Hub er, Secretary to Head of Professional Standards and Lynn Dunnill, Accounting Technician; Joe Saunders,

Q and A

How will I know if I’m to be discussed at RMP? This should be communicated to you in advance of the panel by a line manager. In identifying suitable candidates with appropriate skills for roles, this may not be known in advance of RMP and therefore the head of department will communicate any change within 48 hours of the RMP decision.

Can I make representations about posting decisions?

There is no right of appeal over posting decisions. However, any representations should be made to your line managers/head of department, or alternatively you can seek Federation advice.

Who can I contact in People Services to discuss the posting or promotion process?

Jon Freegard, HR Manager for Strategic Workforce Planning, can help with queries about the business rules and processes.

Nicky Calway, Senior Performance Officer, speaks to the panel about Force deployability

“It is really important that the panel maintains support and representation from the staff associations including Police Federation, Black Police Association and UNISON, who are key members of the panel.”

Joe Saunders, Police Federation Branch Secretary, believes the process is going in the right direction: “The Federation is very pleased to be involved in RMP. We have seen a big improvement on the previous process, and this is something that can only keep getting better. Our continued engagement and support will be on-going across all future RMPs to ensure fairness throughout.”

All future postings and promotions, and business principles will be made available for the Force to view on the RMP portal site and RMP section on Siren, 48 hours after a panel.

Summer 2017 | Page 23

LIFE

From left to right: Alice Massey, Det Con Emily Palframan, Helen Lewis, Det Con Sally Huggett, Beccy John, Steve Lever, Liz Berridge, Heather Osak, Sara Robert, Ruth Bremner, Mel Kingsman, Tim Bennett, Sally Rodden-Smith

The team putting the pieces puzzle together to protect ch ANDY GRANT

‘The MASH is the voice of the vulnerable.’

THE first thing you notice when you set foot in the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) in County Hall is the buzz about the place.

closely together and the Wiltshire MASH was the result.”

Communications Supervisor

It’s an impressive facility to look at too: a 52 seater open plan expanse full of people from differing backgrounds with a singular purpose of protecting young people from harm.

The logo for the MASH is a jigsaw and that really is the essence of what the facility is about. Across Wiltshire and Swindon there are an ever growing number of partners bringing their piece of the puzzle to help build the bigger picture of child protection issues.

Steve Lever is the police manager for both the Wiltshire MASH and its counterpart in Swindon and he showed me round, walking me through a brief history of how the facility came into being.

“The origins of MASH go back to 2009, to the days of what was the Child Protection Referral Unit in Devizes. Wiltshire Council failing an Ofsted inspection in 2012 was the catalyst for bringing partners more

Page 24 | Summer 2017

Alongside the police and local authority children service workers there are people from support organisations such as Splitz

(domestic abuse), Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) and Turning Point (substance misuse) as well as specialist safeguarding nurses, education, early help advisors, housing, Designated Officer for Allegations (DOFA) and Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO), who deal with allegations against people in a position of trust, and the Domestic Abuse Conference Call coordinators (DACC).

As Steve explained: “Having police and partners working

LIFE

Stock image

‘What we have here is right up there with the very best in the country.’ we all work together and therefore share information more readily to safeguard children.

“Our number one consideration is safeguarding. A police prosecution is the cherry on the icing on the cake, but safeguarding always comes first. We want to prevent children coming to harm altogether, but if we have to intervene, the earlier we can do it the better.”

of the hildren alongside each other and sharing information is so beneficial. Instead of dealing with each other on the phone or by email, we’re able to put faces to names and build trust and this in turn means we have a much better understanding of how

Technology is helping to take things one step further. As well as the teams physically sitting in the MASH, discussions can involve a number of ‘virtual’ partners (such as the Probation Service, Adult Mental Health Services, the Youth Offending Team and the Army) to provide an even deeper insight and more options to aid decision making.

The MASH is open 365 days a year and, as well as having an average of ten strategy discussions a day (for complex and high risk cases) across Wiltshire and Swindon, around 600 referrals a week are received from all sorts of sources: from schools, hospitals and members of the public to organisations such as the NSPCC and Splitz. Nearly half of what the MASH deals with comes via the Wiltshire Police PPD1 form.

Steve said: “I know there are a lot of frustrations around the PPD1 form within the Force. Det Supt Craig Holden recently described it as arguably the most important document in the Force and I’d have to agree.

Stock image

“What officers and staff include in the form can have real and serious impacts

for victims. The MASH is the voice of the vulnerable. Without the right detail we can’t put the right prevention and interventions in place to protect people or prevent it from happening.

Stock image

“What we have here is right up there with the very best MASHs in the country and a number of forces are coming to see what is happening in Wiltshire and Swindon.

“We’re different from some other set-ups because we have operational teams such as the Emerald and Opal child sexual exploitation teams and our Missing Persons Coordinators embedded into our MASH. We’re also pioneering the sharing of information with GPs.” Steve and his team are more than happy to welcome visitors to the MASH: “We’ve got an open door policy because the best way to understand how something works is to see it – I’d encourage all officers and staff who deal with vulnerable young people to come and pay us a visit and see what we do and how the information they provide helps set safeguarding in motion to protect children in our communities.”

Summer 2017 | Page 25

LIFE

Ten years protecting abuse victims A MULTI-AGENCY forum which has helped more than 4,000 victims, or potential victims, of domestic abuse has marked ten years of dedicated support.

The Wiltshire Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC) focuses on ensuring the safety of high risk victims of domestic abuse.

Each MARAC is attended by a host of key agencies including statutory, non-statutory and community sector organisations including Wiltshire Council, Wiltshire Police, NHS Wiltshire, probation, housing agencies and the

Wiltshire Domestic Abuse Service – meaning smooth communication and swift action.

over the years to co-ordinate support for people who are living with the impact of domestic abuse.

It provides a forum for sharing information and taking action to reduce harm to victims and their children.

"We need to continue to provide the best service possible to the most vulnerable and high risk victims in our communities.

Since the group started, the MARAC has helped 4,063 high risk victims, and included within those families are 5,815 children.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, Angus Macpherson, said: “I am very impressed with the work that the MARAC has done

"I want to congratulate all partners for the work that they have done, and continue to do, to protect people from harm."

At an HQ event the team took some time out to mark the milestone with all the key partners involved and reflected on the work over the past ten years.

CAUGHT ON CAMERA VICKY CRAIG

Communications Officer

OFFICERS have been provided with top-notch video cameras in an initiative to capture real time evidence. After the initial trial, body worn video (BWV) cameras have been rolled out across the Force.

Supt Gavin Williams said: “Experience of using cameras already shows that people are more likely to plead guilty when they know we have captured the incident on a camera. This speeds up justice, puts offenders behind bars more quickly and, most importantly, protects potential victims.

“Video captures events in a way that can't be represented on paper in the same detail. A picture paints a thousand words, and it has been shown that the mere presence of this type of video can often defuse potentially violent situations without the need for force to be used."

Officers are starting to see where the cameras are having positive effects. Sgt Louis McCoy and PC Steve Lax were called to a domestic abuse incident where there was a report of assault between partners. On being arrested the perpetrator went on to assault Sgt McCoy and was further arrested.

Page 26 | Summer 2017

In interview, a clip from the body worn camera was played and highlighted where she kicked Sgt McCoy in the groin. She was visibly upset and said: "It’s worse than I thought. I’ve never seen myself go off before. I’m disgusted at myself.”

Sgt McCoy, pictured left, said: “It clearly captured the footage of the incident as well as everything said and ultimately this assisted the interview by being able to play the footage to the suspect who provided a full and frank admission.

“You are able to show the suspect at the time that they are being recorded and this can and should help to moderate their behaviour and it also clears up very quickly any allegations against officers.”

The suspect pleaded guilty in court.

In a separate incident, a man holding a baby was making threats. On viewing the evidence his solicitor said: “I can’t defend that!”

BWV IS DESIGNED TO: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

reduce complaints against officers increase early guilty pleas reduce paperwork be time effective protect you and others collect evidence in real time

REMEMBER: ■ Wear your camera at all times ■ Switch it on as soon as you are sent to an incident ■ Use at all times when you are working for a genuine police purpose (if camera isn’t used you will need to justify why) ■ You can play footage back on your camera ■ Upload your footage at a supporting station ■ Never disconnect or switch off a BWVC upload station

LIFE

My tea and flapjack strategy RICHARD WARREN Special Constable

MY third London Marathon was again a great experience for an old ‘un, not without its moments of near pain (not mine) and pleasure.

On the bridge, I caught up with a woman in a racing wheelchair going very slowly up the slope. I asked if I could assist and was able to help Julie from Hereford to the crest.

I‘ve raised just over £2,000 for the Multiple Sclerosis Society and £300 for the Swindon Therapy Centre for MS where I take my wife Lynette twice a week for oxygen therapy (and where I operate the barometric chamber myself every Wednesday).

Other runners assisted in getting her going again and off she went past the Tower of London, leaving me to continue to my next flapjack break.

Leaving Canary Wharf during the last leg (and on my last legs) I could see the flag of Julie’s wheelchair in front and caught up with her; this time assisted by a young man with a big smile from Eritrea in North Africa called Mohammed Ishmail. We decided to form a team to get Julie to the finish.

My strategy is to run the marathon as four 10K races back to back with a tea and flapjack break at each 10K point supplied by my helpful daughter Louise, who ran with me in 2015.

The halfway point, and only slope of the course, is Tower Bridge. It takes me 3hrs from the start to get there, by which time most of the other 36,000 runners have nearly finished.

She descended quite well, although she hit the kerb and tilted sideways. I was able to catch her as we rolled to the floor together.

We finished in 7hrs 30 minutes.

As of this August, I will have been a Special for 50 years, and it would be great to have another go at London next year to celebrate my 73rd birthday.

What a team: Mohammed Ishmail and Richard

I run at least 20K every week so should be able to keep the fitness going (and there is always the bleep test too). Anyone want to run with me?

Marathon boost for Bobby Van PAUL DEAL

Communications Officer

A SPECIAL Branch detective clocked a personal best in the London Marathon – and raised more than £2,000 for the Bobby Van Trust in the process.

Det Con Michael O’Sullivan, who’s based at HQ, crossed the line in 3hrs 46mins, a minute slower than he had hoped.

Michael said: “Much to my wife's annoyance I phoned her from the finish line and said ‘I think I have one more marathon left in me and that I can break the 3hrs 45mins barrier’.

“It truly was a great day and I loved every moment. It certainly restores your faith in humanity. The support from the crowds lining the route was just amazing.

“To date I have raised £2,159.47 (with some people still to pay up). I went to meet the team from the Bobby Van a few days after the marathon. They were such brilliant, positive people and were thrilled with all the support I had received along the way.

“What was a reality check and quite humbling for me was when they

explained that the money raised equates to securing 18 houses through their charity – and that means making 18 families feel more safe in their own home. That's what this was all about for me.

“I would encourage anybody who felt like supporting this great cause to do so, it really does make a huge difference to so many people across Swindon and Wiltshire.”

“Since the marathon I have relaxed somewhat and made full use of the all inclusive bar and restaurant on a recent holiday to Ibiza and struggled to do a three mile run afterwards.

I need to get out and start training again.”

Michael’s efforts caught the eye of the Chief, who mentioned his achievement in one of his columns: “I was very pleased to see one of our detective constables, Michael O’Sullivan, run the London Marathon in aid of the Bobby Van. He put in an incredible effort and raised over £2,000 online for the charity.

“I’m not suggesting you get your trainers on and run 26 miles, but the Bobby Van is a charity and does rely on the generosity of the public.

Summer 2017 | Page 27

WELLBEING

A listening ear when the going gets tough CHARLOTTE LAWRENCE WE all go through tough times and it can really help to talk things through.

Chatting to a colleague on an equal basis who has the genuine compassion to try to understand is called peer support.

It’s not about making an appointment with People Services or with your doctor; it’s not based on psychiatric models and diagnostic criteria. It’s about genuinely talking openly, but confidentially, with someone on an equal footing who can provide support, advice and signposting.

When mental health charity MIND started the Blue Light programme, many police personnel said peer support was something they wanted.

“As a man, I felt particularly vulnerable as mental health is not something men have felt able to discuss, particularly a few years ago.

“However, times are changing. We now have a mental health nurse within the Force and there is a heightened awareness of mental health and its associated problems.

“We are now better able to address issues and signpost people to the right kind of help.

“As a peer supporter I’ve received training provided by the Institute of Mental Health and I’m grateful that, as a group, the Force has invested in us.

“I became a peer supporter because I wanted to help others and give them support and reassurance.

So Wiltshire Police’s support programme was born and now has 12 peer supporters who you can contact via the Wellbeing portal on Firstpoint.

“I’m not a nurse or psychiatrist, but a listening ear and can guide colleagues in the right direction if they need expert help.

So how are we doing three months into the programme? Tom Evans, PNC Bureau Supervisor (pictured right), is one of the core peer supporters and told us how he got involved:

“It’s almost like being a friend who you don’t have any emotional connection with. The more we can talk, the more socially acceptable mental health issues will become. Let’s keep talking.”

“I’ve suffered from mental health problems in the past and at the time there was limited help available within the organisation.

“I’ve come through those times by actively seeking support and, amongst other things, attended a cognitive behaviour therapy course to try to teach myself how to deal with my own thoughts.

Peer supporters’ key skills ■ Active listening ■ Supporting ■ Maintaining effective confidentiality boundaries ■ Signposting to other services

WE’VE BEEN TAKING YOUR PULSE CHARLOTTE LAWRENCE WELLNESS is, and will continue to be, a priority for Wiltshire Police. That’s why this year’s staff survey included five key questions about your health and wellbeing. The results make for compelling reading. You can see the wellness headlines here, but if you would like to

Page 28 | Summer 2017

access the full results you can find them on Firstpoint.

There’s always room for improvement and the Force is continually reviewing how it can achieve higher standards. It’s not just about ensuring you’re well enough to work, it’s about

ensuring you have access to the right equipment and services. The Force is headed in the right direction, always learning and making improvements and is never complacent - so watch this space as your views are taken seriously. In the meantime, if you have any ideas you can access the wellness culture innovation log within the Health and Wellbeing portal on Firstpoint.

WELLBEING

Building bridges through mediation CHARLOTTE LAWRENCE MANY of us have challenging roles and sometimes conflict can occur. How we deal with it is important.

As part of the culture review, led by the Strategic Wellness Board, the Force has introduced mediation, offering the option of a new, informal way of resolving issues.

No records are kept in the completely confidential process, which is designed to be an alternative to the formal grievance procedure and better for your wellbeing.

Mediation is a process in which a neutral third party intervenes in a workplace conflict or dispute to assist the parties in reaching a satisfactory outcome.

Mediation usually lasts one full day.

It creates a safe environment where parties are able to communicate and work towards the restoration of a positive working relationship.

It’s a structured process which enables parties to identify, consider and discuss their own and each other’s current and future needs. Trained mediators encourage and facilitate open and honest communication, which often leads to increased awareness, understanding and empathy between parties.

The process begins with a referral, then two pre-mediation meetings, followed by direct mediation, leading to closure and then a follow-up/evaluation.

WHO ARE OUR MEDIATORS? All our mediators are fully trained and certified.

■ Det Con Scott Barrett

■ Matthew Partington from Officer Safety Training ■ Administrator Emma Barrie ■ John Boland – Major Incidents If you think that mediation might be something you are interested in pursuing you can find more details on Firstpoint, under the Health and Wellbeing pages.

First, contact the Issue Resolution Team within People Services who will forward a referral form to get a better understanding of the issue. This will also help to identify the right mediator to support and facilitate the resolution process.

■ Completely confidential, no records kept

■ PC Beccy John

■ A positive, constructive way forward

■ Natalie Bishop – Contact Centre ■ Det Con Adrian Bray

■ An alternative to a formal grievance process

■ MASH Research and Administrator Ruth Bremner ■ Positive Action Officer Sandra Samuel ■ Det Con Michelle Hilton ■ Force Training Supervisor Jo Jackson ■ PC Sophia Best, CPT Community Coordinator

■ Move at your own pace in a safe environment ■ It’s good for your wellbeing ■ Restoring positive, productive working relationships

Ready to help: (from left) Adrian Bray, Ruth Bremner, Jo Jackson, Scott Barrett, Natalie Bishop, Matthew Partington and Sandra Samuel

E TO CHECK ON YOUR WELLNESS I know where I can access support at work if I need it

I believe there is enough support available to assist in my wellbeing if I need it

I am comfortable with the pressure placed upon me in my job

I am able to meet the requirements of my job without regularly working excessive hours

New ways of working has had a positive impact in supporting my health and wellbeing

82%

63%

58%

52%

36% Summer 2017 | Page 29

WELLBEING

CYCLING YOUR WAY TO HEALTH SHEA D’ARCY

Communications Officer

EMBRACING a healthier lifestyle doesn’t have to mean restrictive eating and gym regimes. Swap your car commute for cycling and discover a simple way to improve your health and wellbeing.

Wiltshire Police staff can take advantage of Cyclescheme, a Government backed initiative that makes commuting by bike accessible and affordable. With Cyclescheme you get a new cycle commuting package (a bike and accessories), make a saving (of at least 25 per cent on the recommended retail price) and get to spread the cost too.

T/Det Sgt Anthony King, who has been involved in the scheme since 2014, said: “Cyclescheme is a great way to purchase good quality bikes and safety equipment. It doesn’t even take long to apply.

“I’ve purchased two bikes through the scheme - a road bike back in 2014 and a hybrid crosstrail in 2016. I enjoy road cycling, but being able to make use of the many off-road tracks and trails we have in Wiltshire is fantastic.”

Cycling is a great way of including exercise in your day. It can contribute towards a healthy heart, reduce stress, improve your ability to mentally ‘switch-off’ and make you feel happier all round.

To find out how Cyclescheme can get you commuting by bike visit www. cyclescheme.co.uk/f3864f or check out the Siren app.

Living with a hid There are many officers and staff across the Force who deal with conditions which are not particularly obvious to others.

Illnesses such as diabetes, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, depression and cancer are just some of the raft of conditions which can be classed as hidden.

MIKE VEALE

Chief Constable

A WHILE ago I was talking with a member of police staff who, I was interested to learn, has Cystic Fibrosis (CF).

I didn’t know much about CF. For me it conjures up images of seriously ill people, but that was not the healthy, optimistic and bright-looking person that sat in front of me.

She was very open about the fact that there are times when she feels ‘normal’ and others when it is a struggle to walk, talk or breathe properly.

She talked about how CF manifests differently in each person, characterised by a build-up of mucus in the organs, and the differences in genetic mutations which mean that everyone with CF is unique. She spoke about the frequent chest infections and sinusitis, and the medications, nebulisers and exercise she needs to stay well. But even with this there are times when admission to hospital is the only option. Her bravery, vitality, knowledge and incredible resilience were inspiring.

We chatted about how CF affects her work, and the measures her department takes to help keep her well. Awareness across the department is key and the team all know to keep their distance if they have colds, and the importance of frequently using hand sanitiser to help combat germs. Technology has also made a difference; with laptops, smart phones and tablets, we are now more mobile, agile and flexible, which means that she has greater control of her work and her health and wellbeing.

She was also very positive about the help and support she has had from the Force. The Occupational Health Unit, HR and her line manager, working with her medical team, have put in place a system of monitoring and support, so she can get on with the day job, take care of herself and avoid crisis points.

It was evident to me that a good work/ life balance is a key part of keeping her well – and this is something that applies to all of us.

To find out more information on CF visit: www.cysticfibrosis.org.uk/what-is-cysticfibrosis.

That morning’s chat made me think about disability and hidden illness.

TIME TO GET IN THE WELLBEING 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.

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.

The Wellbeing Zone is a brand-new app from Police Mutual. It 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.

What you can do on the Wellbeing Zone:

But there’s so much more to wellbeing than just keeping fit. The Wellbeing Zone

Page 30 | Summer 2017

■ 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.

How do I sign up and try it myself?

You can access the zone through Siren on your smartphone. Simply click the menu on the top left hand corner and select ‘Wellbeing Zone.’

Enter our unique organisation code: WP01 and then continue to set up your login details.

Or via Wiltshire.wellbeingzone.co.uk and again enter the code WP01.

WELLBEING

dden illness Recently I met with Helen Kennedy who has just left Wiltshire Police for an exciting role with the MoD. She was the Head of Media Services in Corporate Communications, which can be a stressful role, so it was a great surprise to me to find out that she has a hidden illness.

get enough sleep because people with ‘Fibro’ tend not to get enough REM sleep, which is when we tend to heal.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition affecting the muscles and tendons. Helen told me she has pain throughout her body all of the time and takes strong painkillers on a daily basis.

One of her biggest challenges is to

Helen explained that the doctors know very little about the causes and that there is no known cure. She finds it very difficult to exercise but has two sausage dogs who keep her busy and on her feet.

I found it incredible that Helen was able to face such daily challenges and still manage to do her job.

Helen told me that the only way she can manage is to maintain her work/life balance

which is something we all need to work harder to do. Getting the right amount of rest is crucial but even a healthy person should ensure that they get enough rest and make time for family and friends.

To find out more about Fibromyalgia visit www.fmauk.org.

If you would like to have a chat and are happy to share your experience of hidden illness please send me an email and I will arrange a convenient time.

Don’t just take our word for it ...

“I signed up to the Wellness Zone and have found it enormously helpful to record and track my health and activity.

I’m a healthy eater anyway, so I received high scores in the wellness assessment. But this has definitely made me re-focus, particularly about eating fruit and staying hydrated.

It’s also opened up conversations, including in the canteen where I persuaded a colleague to have a side salad instead of extra chips.

It would be helpful if the zone could factor in specifics such as injury or medical conditions that are not taken into account.

Overall, though, it’s great and I’ve been encouraging people to sign up, it only takes two minutes.”

Rosamund Lodge, Force Trainer

Summer 2017 | Page 31

GET CONNECTED WITH US TODAY...

www.facebook.com/wiltshirepolice

www.twitter.com/wiltshirepolice

T WEETBEAT:

#WeStandTogether KAT FLEET

Digital Communications Officer

SH ILT IR

PO

E

W

The recent terrorist attacks in London and Manchester have made the British public pause and appreciate their amazing emergency services. Support for the police has bolstered, with people praising and thanking the brave men and women who run towards the danger everyone else is fleeing.

LICE

Wiltshire Police @wiltshirepolice

Our thoughts are with those who lost their lives, were affected by events in #Manchester and those who rushed to help #WeStandTogether

Chief Constable Mike Veale shared a heartfelt message after events in Manchester: “There will be those in our communities who have been left shaken, scared and in need of comfort. As your police service, we have an important role to play as our communities look to us for answers and assurance.

“While the Wiltshire Police flag flies at half-mast in front of Police Headquarters and we share in the collective grief felt across the country, we will continue in our duties, we will be visible and we will do all that we can to reassure our communities.”

Wiltshire Police supports periodic national counter terrorism social media campaigns throughout the year. The posts are generic, usually instructional (report suspicious behaviour, what to do in a terror attack etc) and hopefully offer some reassurance. These posts typically get minimal engagement from the public.

The same counter terrorism messages posted again after a terrorist attack and the public engagement is huge in comparison ...

Counter Terrorism Facebook post

The same post following a terror attack

Reach

6,500

Reach

84,012

Shares

1

Shares

747

Likes

12

Likes

147

Here are some examples of comments on Wiltshire Police posts after recent terror attacks The day after the London Bridge attack: Sarah Rowlands Sad times, but very thankful to each and every one of you working in the emergency services, thank you.

4 June 2017

Amanda Price I just want to say a very big thank you to Wiltshire Police. They go above and beyond their role from my experiences with them over the last few months. Fantastic support and help from them ☺☺.

4 June 2017

6

Myra Delaney Our police force are the best of the best. They do a brilliant job, I salute you. Also thanks to all the emergency services. Makes me proud to be British. God bless you all.

4 June 2017

4

The days following the Manchester attack: Maja Smajdor Be Safe and thankful to those who are out there to protect us.

24 May 2017

When trying to explain the Westminster attack to five year old Bethany, her mum tried to focus on the emergency services who were helping people. Bethany wanted to make a card to thank the police for looking after our country. Chippenham police let little Bethany test out the blues and twos in one of their police cars to say thank you and shared the story on their Facebook page.

16

3

Pat Rogers Be safe everyone 24 May 2017

1

Geraldine Clisby-White Thank you to our incredibly brave police, it’s great to know you are their protecting us. Thank you for all you do. Be safe out there x 24 May 2017

3

Naomi Mills Thank you and all your colleagues for keeping us safe ☺ 24 May 2017

5

Chris Bran Thank you. You’re all appreciated by my family. Please take care in all you do for us. Please let your own family know we do think of them I am very proud of you all. GB♥ 26 May 2017

If you would like more advice about using social media please contact Kat Fleet on ext 33595 or via email