From the Royal Navy, to PCSO to Police Constable
Discover Debs’ inspiring transition from serving in the Royal Navy to becoming a Police Constable with Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary. She’s found a fulfilling balance between her professional duties and personal life, continuing to serve her community with pride while embracing her vital role as a mum.
What is your military background?
In 2001 at just 16 years old, I boarded a train from Newcastle to Plymouth to join the Royal Navy with no real idea what I was letting myself in for. The next six years turned out to be some of the best of my life, full of deployments, travelling to amazing places and making life longs friendships but after all the adventures, I felt it was time to build some roots and pursue a new career.
What sparked your interest in the police?
During my resettlement phase, I completed a Career Transition Partnership (CTP) course in Policing and discovered there was a number of staff roles available and I found myself drawn to the role of Police Community Support Officer (PCSO).
Why Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary?
During my time in the Military, I spent most of my time in and around Portsmouth I quickly grew to appreciate the warmer weather and being by the sea and relocated to the area.
What has your journey in policing been like?
I began my policing career in 2007 as a Police Community Support Officer and spent seven years in this role, gaining valuable experience working closely with communities and supporting frontline officers.
In 2013, I made the decision to become a police officer, and upon completing my initial training, I joined a response and patrol team. I spent five years in that role, attending live incidents and developing a solid foundation in frontline policing. Looking to broaden my experience, I then moved into an investigations department, where I was responsible for interviewing prisoners, gathering crucial evidence, and preparing case files for the criminal justice system. While I gained a lot from this role, I soon realised that I missed the dynamic nature of frontline work. After two years, I transitioned into neighbourhood policing role, which I held for five years. This allowed me to re-engage with local communities, build strong partnerships, and focus on problem solving.
Most recently, I have taken on a new challenge in the recruitment team, where I am proud to help shape the future of policing by supporting and guiding new recruits.
What do you find more beneficial about working in the police compared to your time in the military?
Initially what I appreciated the most was that at the end of a shift, I could go home to my own bed and make my own food. As time has gone on, I have come to appreciate the variety of work and the opportunities available for both police staff and officers. I have also in the most recent years, been fortunate to receive great support balancing work and family life, with the opportunity to work a flexible pattern allowing me to be both a committed police officer and a mum, which has been invaluable in maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
What do veterans bring to roles in the police?
Veterans bring a positive can do attitude, quick-thinking decision-making skills which are vital in policing, and we are always punctual and well presented!
What advice would you give to current service leavers?
You are bringing a wealth of knowledge and life experience, be confident in the skills you bring, be open to learning new approaches, and don’t be afraid to ask questions along the way. The support is there, and your unique perspective is a real asset.
For our current vacancies visit our vacancy page All Hampshire Constabulary Jobs, or if you would like to arrange a one to one call to discuss joining us, please contact our military recruitment officer – debbie.neesham@hampshire.police.uk
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