New officers incoming

People often ask me why I joined the Police. Over the years, I’ve given a variety of answers — some funny, some serious, some somewhere in between. But in the last few years, I’ve realised there’s actually a very simple explanation.

I joined the Police because I like helping people.

That’s it. That’s the whole truth. And these days, whenever a skipper gently reminds me that I’ve drifted outside my remit (again!), I smile and repeat it:
“I joined this job because I like helping people.”

It won’t surprise anyone to hear that this occasionally makes me… let’s say, a creative challenge to manage. For example, I’m often spotted lending a hand to the ladies at the front office. My Inspector usually rolls his eyes and reminds me (patiently) that it isn’t technically my job. He’s right, of course — but if I can help, why wouldn’t I?

And sometimes, helping leads to unexpected rewards.

Two years ago, a friend reached out. She was struggling to place students on the new Detective pathway, and she needed someone calm, patient, and willing to show them what real policing looks like on the streets.

I put my hand up to give it a go.

It worked so well that we never stopped. Over the next two years, we trained dozens of new Detectives who now work here in Acton — all starting their journey with us. As a result we have had lots of extra boots on the ground and achieved so much during this time.

Sadly, that particular pathway has come to an end, and we won’t be getting any more Detective trainees. But just when it seemed like the chapter was closing, Louise got in touch. In her new role, she’s facing a familiar challenge: too many new officers waiting for their first posting, and not enough places to put them.

So she asked, “Can Acton take a few?”

And we said yes.

For the next five weeks, we’ll be looking after three brand‑new uniform officers, giving them their first taste of policing. We’ll even be supporting our colleagues in Southfield ward with some retail‑related reactive work around the Tesco on The Vale.

If you’re wondering, “Why are you helping Southfield, Dave?”
Well… you already know the answer.

I joined this job because I like helping people.
And I get to do it alongside PC Traie Dale, who just happens to be my favourite police officer — so really, everyone wins.