I joined policing as a result of the July Bombings in 2005, I vividly remember that day, and making the decision that I was going to work for public service, having no real idea what that would look like. Six months later I found myself working in an intelligence department for the police, and some fifteen years later, I have progressed my career with the fantastic opportunities that the City of London Police have presented me. Today I am working as the Disaster Victim Identification Coordinator and Casualty Bureau Manager for the City of London Police. My job is to lead a team of officers, staff and volunteers during a major incident to help victims and families find their loved ones during the chaotic incidents. Managing a call handling capability, a matching unit and deploying Disaster Vitim Identification teams to assist in the identification of casualties. The City of London Police has the most remarkable officers and staff, who volunteer during these incidents. All of them step up and to come to the aid of the public in the darkest moments of their lives. I am incredibly humbled to work alongside these individuals, who demonstrate the highest levels of pride and professionalism to their roles. Personally I think policing can be the toughest, but most rewarding job a person can do.

Melissa Dark, Senior Staff Manager, National casualty Bureau Coordinator

I joined City Police as I wanted more for my career, more in every aspect. Working with the City Police has been like having the best of both worlds; part of a small tight knit family when you set foot through one of the buildings to the diverse hustle and bustle as you step out into the Square Mile.

Being part of the UK National Lead force in Economic Crime has meant being part of a unique and forward thinking organisation that meshes the culture and practice of both the public and private sector.

Seizing the opportunity to work in two directorates, being selected as part of the ECD Talent Programme and standing as an LGBT+ ally have been some of the prospects I have strived to achieve. This is just a glimpse of what it means to work at the City of London Police.

The incredible support from officers and staff at all levels has enabled me to learn and grow in both a professional and personal capacity. Seeing few but significant role models that look like me has enabled me to uphold my ambition and be the next role model.

The vibrancy of working in the City of London and the exclusivity of the organisation has most certainly made me feel success is at every corner if you’re willing and determined.

Sehrish Ashiq, Intelligence Analyst, Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED)

I have worked for the City of London Police since April 2008, first starting in administration, then joining as an officer in November 2010. I turned 30 this year, which made me think about the last 12 years and what it means to work for the City of London Police. I can honestly say I am as enthusiastic about being a police officer now, as I was when I first joined. There is no better feeling than being able to help people when they are at their weakest, to protect them when they are at their most vulnerable, and to support them whilst they become stronger. The City of London Police is unique, the term ‘Small but Mighty’ describes it perfectly. It is full of the most incredible people, made up of such a variety of personalities and capabilities. Whatever team you work in, we learn from each-other’s strengths and we help each other to improve our weaknesses. The support I have received from my peers has certainly kept me going through some of the toughest days and the constant variety in work provides focus and continuous learning. I have most recently worked within the Pandemic Multi Agency Response Team as one of the sergeants in the Operations room. As a force, the response we provided to the Coronavirus across London makes me even more proud of what we have. I feel honoured to work alongside the officers and civilians who are the City of London Police family and would thoroughly recommend it to anyone who is interested in becoming part of the team..

Hannah Knight, DC in MIR

In May this year 2020 I have been in the City of London Police for 20 years, I still remember my first day like it was yesterday aged 21 and also how old everyone who had 20 years’ service seemed!

From that day the CoLP has been like a family to me and I feel very privileged to have been working for so long in an excellent Force.

I always wanted to be a Police Officer and I wanted to work in London, I applied as soon as I left University for the CoLP as my Uncle who at the time was in the Police in Lincoln said it was a great force.

I have worked in many departments, starting off as everyone does on uniform Policing, then to CID, the Public Protection Unit, returned to Uniform Policing to be a Custody Sergeant, to the Economic Crime Dept and now to Professional Standards. The variety of work is one of the biggest positives of being a Police Officer.

I have enjoyed all of the roles immensely and have been proud to have worked with some amazing and passionate Police Officers.

In 2015 I had twins and was off on maternity leave then returning after 8 months away from work, with a need to work a flexible shift pattern and the CoLP were very supportive during this time, reiterating my feeling that the CoLP has an amazing family atmosphere and I am so proud to be enjoying my career with them.

Emma Brown, DS in IFED, ECD