“There are many situations that NPT members have been able to put the extra time into, figure out the heart of the issues and liaise with government and external agencies to create solutions. In doing so, they’ve reduced repeat taskings for patrols to some of the problem addresses for neighbourhood disputes.” Salisbury NPT covers an ethnically diverse area comprising Mawson Lakes, Parafield Gardens, Paralowie and Salisbury North. “We make a considerable effort to form collaborative partnerships with multicultural groups through schools, religious sites, organisations, associations and businesses,” Sergeant Trevelion said. “By starting conversations and showing a genuine interest, we’re able to break down barriers and develop greater understanding that can only lead to better outcomes.” Sergeant Trevelion has developed strong working relationships with multicultural community groups, and
regularly attends and speaks at cultural and community events. In recent years she has become closely involved with the local Bhutanese community. She has established an extremely high level of trust, with community members having sought her assistance and support to deal with sensitive matters such as mental health and domestic abuse. “I started working with the Bhutanese community around four years ago after they raised concerns about being racially targeted in rock throwing incidents by local youth,” Sergeant Trevelion said. “We determined these incidents were random and allayed their fears. However, with a large majority of the Bhutanese migrants residing in the NPT suburb of Salisbury North this interaction soon expanded.” Sergeant Trevelion has collaborated with other agencies and SAPOL areas to run a road safety program for deaf Bhutanese people from the Salisbury TAFE AUSLAN class. She also
engages with the Bhutanese Torture Survivors Group, where she is held in high regard by people who have had negative experiences with authorities in their home country. “It has taken some time to develop a meaningful relationship with the community and generate trust and respect,” she said. “I initially partnered with the City of Salisbury’s Bhutanese Elders Group Social Support Program, presenting education sessions on topics such as home and personal security and domestic violence. “This resulted in me being approached for advice and assistance by members of this program as well as their extended
families, with an increase in their willingness to report matters and provide information to the police. “Word has also spread to other support agencies, which have also approached me on behalf of their clients to assist on various issues and formulate holistic responses.” Despite the challenges of full-time shift work while raising two young children, Sergeant Trevelion continues to lead by example. “I thoroughly enjoy my role as it allows me to be more hands-on and create effective working partnerships to deliver outcomes that improve community confidence,” she said. Sergeant Taryn Trevelion with members of local multicultural communities. Photos: SAPOL Photographic Section.
It’s very satisfying when you’re able to follow something through and see the impact of positive outcomes. BL UEPR IN T IS S U E 1 ~ 2 0 1 8
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