CHAIR ASKS
safety legislation. Yet, inevitably, even when assessing the full situation, the natural instinct of officers to help others comes to the surface and, come what may, they put the safety of others before their own. It takes a special kind of person to be able to do this job, and the Police Bravery Awards highlight exactly how exceptional police officers are.
& RESCUE SERVICES: SH: In your experience, what are some common challenges or risks that police officers face when demonstrating bravery? AC: As an officer, I saw first-hand
“The common thread amongst all police officers who demonstrate bravery is that they are willing to risk their own safety to keep the public safe.”
SH: What outcomes or impact do you hope to see as a result of recognising and celebrating acts of bravery? TL: Our members do not perform these acts of bravery for any award recognition; in fact, that is the furthest thing from their minds at the time of the incident. They do the job they are trained to do and, more often than not, perform above and beyond what is ever expected of them. The Police Bravery Awards are just a snapshot of the countless heroic acts our officers perform every day and allows us to shine a positive light on police and recognise the exceptional commitment and expertise demonstrated by police officers. Importantly, in addition to recognising the bravery shown, it also gives us the opportunity to say thank you to all police officers for all they do.
the professional, compassionate and courageous acts the police carry out on a daily basis and the positive difference they make to our communities. Bravery is about putting yourself in harm’s way to help others. The common thread amongst all police officers who demonstrate bravery is that they are willing to risk their own safety to keep the public safe. From my experience, and from judging these awards, officers’ bravery is something that comes as second nature in the moment. It is startling how often officers say afterwards that they didn’t think about themselves at all.
ANDY COOKE, HIS MAJESTY’S CHIEF INSPECTORATE OF CONSTABULARY AND FIRE
SH: Are there any specific ethical considerations or standards you believe should be taken into account when evaluating acts of bravery? AC: Every circumstance is unique, which is why it is critical for police officers to have a clear set of ethical principles that help to guide them to do the right thing. For this reason, I believe anyone evaluating acts of bravery should have due regard to the Code of Ethics, as set by the College of
Policing. It is also important to recognise that sometimes you can try to do the right thing, but other factors beyond your control mean the result isn’t what you hoped for. SH: How do you anticipate the selection process for the Police Bravery Awards will contribute to fostering a culture of courage and excellence within the law enforcement community? AC: Police officers and staff are used to working tirelessly and committing acts of bravery
to help the public. I believe they do this because of their deep sense of public service, and they would, in my opinion, continue to do so regardless of the Bravery Awards. But recognition is important, and too often their acts of incredible bravery go unrecognised. The awards contribute to a culture where police officers are valued for the risks they take to protect us all.
KERRY MCMAHON-WHITE, MANGING DIRECTOR, POLICE MUTUAL:
SH: What do you believe distinguishes an act of bravery from routine duties performed by police officers? KMW: In my eyes, an act of bravery by a police officer typically involves facing significant danger or risking personal safety beyond the usual demands of their routine duties. It might involve going above and beyond to protect others or address a critical situation that puts them at extraordinary risk.
21 | POLICE | APRIL | 2024
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