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As an inspector with Greater Manchester Police (GMP) for nearly 26 years, I’ve navigated various roles while balancing the demands of motherhood. My journey began with seven years in response policing before I was promoted to Sergeant when my first son was about 18 months old. Seeking roles that offered more manageable shifts, I transitioned to positions in the intelligence/operational support unit, burglary team, and prisoner processing unit, allowing me to stay connected to district policing.
After the birth of my second child, who was diagnosed with a chromosomal abnormality at 10 months old, I returned from maternity leave and shifted to a detective sergeant role. I passed the national investigators’ exam (NIE), changed districts, and immersed myself in the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
Over the years, I led serious investigations into assaults and child sexual exploitation (CSE), spent three years in the CSE team, and later moved into training, eventually becoming the unit head for student officer training. After four years, I felt the pull back to frontline policing and have been serving in neighborhood policing for the past two and a half years.
Balancing policing with family life is undeniably challenging, but I’ve found that the variety of roles within GMP can accommodate diverse work-life balance needs. The most challenging aspect for me has been leading serious investigations while ensuring I’m home to meet the school bus at 3:30pm.
On the rewarding side, sharing my experiences with student officers has been fulfilling. I recall a student who remembered me visiting her home when she was eight years old after her sister was reported missing; she told me I inspired her to become a police officer. Additionally, working in CSE and contributing to positive changes in young people’s lives has been deeply gratifying.
Being a mother most definitely provided a skill set in this area of policing that you can’t always teach.
GMP has been supportive in terms of flexible working arrangements. As a large organisation, there are numerous opportunities that cater to various work-life balance needs. The key is to work hard, and the organisation reciprocates with support.
I’m also part of GMP’s carers support group, and I’ve benefited from the various support networks and mentoring schemes available. Seeking support has shown me that I’m not alone in my experiences. Notably, in 2021, GMP recruited a cohort of part-time/job share officers, many of whom joined to fulfill their dream of being police officers while also being parents.
As a supervisor, you understand how hard policing can be and can provide staff extra support from an experienced and ‘lived’ perspective.
Motherhood has profoundly influenced my approach to policing. While I have a deep passion for my profession, my children are my top priority. This perspective has guided my career choices, leading me to opt for roles perceived as less ‘risky’ to ensure I return home safely each day. It has also influenced my decision against pursuing further promotions, as I believe additional responsibilities might negatively impact my family life.
Reflecting on my career, I recognise the importance of adaptability and the support systems that enable me to serve both my community and my family effectively.
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This article was first published by the College of Policing, you can read the original article here.
