TASER training department, Russ

Can you tell us about your role?

I work for the Joint Operations TASER training department, this is situated at Netley in Hampshire and Upper Heyford in Oxfordshire. I am a TASER lead instructor which allows me to teach TASER Instructors and end users (STOs). We train over 1500 officers a year across the Joint Operations Unit (JOU) to carry TASER and give them the ability to protect the public and themselves during incidents involving significant threats of violence. It is a rewarding job seeing a variety of officers from all different roles and skill sets.

Can you tell us about transferring from another force?

I transferred from Thames Valley Police in 2020 for personal reasons — and admittedly for the chance to live by the sea. The process was straightforward, and I found everyone here incredibly kind and welcoming.

As with any move, it takes time to adjust to new systems and processes, but policing is policing wherever you are. And yes… believe it or not I do still manage to get out, attend jobs, and stay grounded but admittedly not as often as I’d like.

Are there any particular skills you require to do the role?

I believe being a good communicator is essential, particularly in understanding and adapting to different learning styles. I do not believe in placing students under unnecessary pressure when learning new skills; any stress should be introduced through realistic, scenario‑based assessments. To be a TASER instructor, you must have experience as a Public Order Instructor, Firearms Instructor, or Public and Personal Safety Training Instructor, or have completed a National TASER Instructor Course (NTIC). I was a Public Order Instructor before becoming a TASER Instructor.

What is the best part of your job?

The initial courses are without doubt the highlight. Seeing students arrive on day one having never handled a TASER, and by day three safely and accurately deploying it under pressure – with sound judgement and tactical awareness – is incredibly satisfying. I’m acutely aware of the stresses and demands on front line officers and really want to make their experience with us enjoyable.

Knowing I’ve played a role in making officers safer through effective training is something I’m genuinely proud of.

What would a standard day look like for you?

Due to the sheer volume of refreshers, most days we have refresher training on which involves either groups of 8 or 12 students being refreshed in their skills. I could be delivering the PowerPoint, running firing ranges or conducting drills and exercises. We also review all operational firings of TASER to identify good practice or indeed any opportunities for development.

What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a Detention TASER Instructor Officer?

If you are passionate about officer safety and developing students it’s definitely the job for you. You would need to have a really good understanding of use of force powers and the National Decision Making Model and a good sense of humour (very important).

Any other information you feel would be beneficial to potential candidates?

The door to our office is always open come in, meet the team and let’s spark some interest in the TASER instructors of the future.

What do you do to unwind when not at work?

I enjoy running, going to the gym, and escaping to sunny holiday destinations. My favourite way to relax, though, is taking the dogs to the beach – fresh air, sound of the waves, and a bit of headspace

For our current vacancies visit our vacancy page All Hampshire Constabulary Jobs, or if you have any questions, please contact police.recruitment@hampshire.police.uk and we would be happy to help. Alternatively, please call us on 023 8045 1611.