Police to celebrate the vital role of police staff during national recognition week
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We're celebrating the unsung heroes of Durham Constabulary.
This week (3-9 March), forces across the UK are coming together to honour the contribution made by police staff.
Launched by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), with support from the College of Policing, the second national Police Staff Week of Celebration and Recognition hopes to shine a spotlight on the individuals who play an important role within the policing family.
As part of the week, forces will be celebrating the contribution made by those working across all areas of policing – including call handlers, PCSOs, digital forensic analysts, IT technicians, as well as those who manage sex offenders in the community, analysts, fleet, finance and more.
It is also hoped the recognition will encourage other professionals to consider a future in policing.
Read about some of them below.
Helen - Witness Care and Criminal Justice Unit (CJU) Admin Manager
While Helen’s role is behind the scenes, the impact she makes is huge. She’s been with the force for almost 17 years, leading and supporting the team who work closely with witnesses and victims of crime and more recently, also taking over the CJU admin team.
She is well respected beyond the wider CJU team, liaising closely with the Crown Prosecution Service and HM Courts and Tribunal Service – where her knowledge and insight regularly make her a point of contact ahead of trial days.
Her favourite part of the role? “Working with amazing people.”
A colleague said: “Helen manages complex teams and regularly goes the extra mile. She’s an exemplary member of staff who truly encourages the team to be their best.”
Kath - ARMS Assessment Investigator
Kath plays a vital role in Operation Trinity – leading efforts to manage unconvicted sexual offence suspects in the community.
Kath’s work has helped identify and manage high-risk individuals, making a real impact on public safety. Since January 2024, over 70 individuals who are not convicted of sexual offences but who are assessed as posing a risk, have been identified and civil orders obtained. Some of those have then gone on to breach their order resulting in the offenders being placed on the sex offenders register – highlighting the importance of this initiative.
With 30 years as a police officer at Cleveland Police and nine years in Durham’s Public Protection Unit and more recently on Durham’s Op Trinity team, Kath has been instrumental in shaping national best practice. Her dedication led to the College of Policing recognising her work, which has now been adopted by the majority of police forces across the UK.
Kath’s favourite part of her role: “Operation Trinity is a success because of teamwork. This starts with the officer referring the case into Operation Trinity, the dedicated lawyer presenting the case in court and the risk management officers who then manage the individuals who are the subject of such orders. Each one of us plays a key role in working to keep the public safe.
"I feel incredibly grateful to work for such a forward thinking force that has enabled us to develop Operation Trinity and work within such a great team, that I believe, really does help to protect the public."
A colleague said: “Kath is a huge support to us investigators and a breath of fresh air. She is so passionate about this role across the force and works tirelessly to make a difference for women and girls.”
Adrian - Police Community Support Officer (PCSO)
Adrian is one of Durham Constabulary’s first-ever PCSOs, and has been serving the Chester-le-Street community since 2004.
At 64 years old, Adrian is as committed as ever – regularly working late, taking ownership of issues, and problem-solving to provide reassurance and confidence to the public.
In 2007, Adrian co-founded the first-ever Activity Week in Chester-le-Street, an event providing entertainment for local children during the summer holidays. What started with just £350 in fundraising has grown into a huge success, raising £26,000 last year, and attracting 25,000 people over five days. The event is a lifeline for young people from underprivileged backgrounds, giving them opportunities they may not otherwise have.
Adrian’s favourite part about being a PSCO? Every day is different day with many different challenges, such as Shoplifters targeting our Town centre, Road Collison’s & directing traffic, giving presentations in local Schools, dealing with various police tasks and problem solving difficult ongoing situations, meeting, and chatting with our community and being that known face in the Town centre.
Adrian’s dedication goes beyond community events. He recently received a Commander’s Commendation for performing lifesaving CPR on a man in cardiac arrest while on patrol. In December, he also organised a Christmas gift collection for local care homes, spreading joy to residents.
A colleague said: “Adrian is the model of professionalism and an example to all new PCSOs. His dedication to the community and willingness to go the extra mile make him truly exceptional.”
Graham and Barry - Stolen Vechicle Examiners
These two absolute legends of Durham Constabulary – Graham and Barry have nearly 100 years of combined experience.
As the force’s Stolen Motor Vehicle Team, they examine over 1,000 vehicles and parts each year. Together they play a vital role in identifying stolen vehicles, supporting investigations, and providing expert reports and evidential statements for court cases.
Their expertise extends beyond Durham, regularly assisting Northumbria and Cleveland Police.
With 30+ years of policing service each, plus another 15-18 years as police staff vehicle examiners, their dedication is unmatched. The knowledge they provide to DRAP, response teams, the wider force, and the public is truly invaluable.
In 2023 Graham and Barry were also honoured with the NPCC ‘Front-Line Heroes’ award for their services to roads policing.
A colleague said: “Their positivity is brilliant and the amount of knowledge the pair have is truly outstanding.”
Do you fancy a career in a police staff role?
Find out more about the skills and experience we need, and the types of police staff roles currently available.