REPS SPOTLIGHT
a great deal of respect for.” Professionally and personally, the
award has had a meaningful impact. “It has reminded me that being passionate and showing kindness and compassion is important,” she explained. “It’s reminded me why I joined 20 years ago and reinvigorated my enthusiasm for the job.” That motivation to help people, has
remained a constant throughout her career. “Probably quite naively, I just wanted to help people,” she said. “I’d worked in customer service and enjoyed engaging with people and policing seemed like an extension of that.” In a challenging policing landscape, DI Sydney is candid about the difficulties officers face today, particularly around public confidence. “The lack of trust and confidence in policing is the most challenging aspect,” she said. “I am still immensely proud to be a police officer and proud of the work my colleagues do. In my role, I try to promote their good work to the wider force, the public, and our partners to help change perceptions.”
Her leadership philosophy has been
shaped by difficult moments throughout her career. “I’ve learnt that asking for help isn’t a weakness,” she reflected. “Teamwork is vital and looking after your colleagues is a priority, even if it’s just
taking them for a cup of tea at the end of a long day.”
This emphasis on welfare is evident beyond her formal duties. DI Sydney is widely recognised as a mentor and advocate for colleagues, providing support through illness, crisis and personal hardship with compassion and discretion. More recently, she has also taken on the role of Federation representative, applying the same empathy and professionalism to
Despite how it’s portrayed, the vast majority of officers come to work to help people, improve lives and make society better.” DI Sydney’s contribution, spanning investigative excellence, training innovation, partnership working, and unwavering support for both victims and colleagues, has had a lasting impact on the City of London Police. Her leadership embodies the very best of modern policing, making her a thoroughly deserving recipient of the Police Officer of the Year Award. City of London Police
“Embrace any advice you’re given and
don’t be afraid of doing things that make you feel uncomfortable or nervous.”
representing and supporting officers. Her advice to new officers is both
practical and encouraging. “Embrace any advice you’re given and don’t be afraid of doing things that make you feel uncomfortable or nervous,” she said. “Some of the best learning I’ve had is when I’ve been uncomfortable. Don’t compare your career to anyone else, this is your journey.” Asked what message she would leave with readers about policing and public service, her response was clear and heartfelt.
“I still believe people choose policing because it’s a vocation, not just a job.
Federation Chair Russell Pengelly said: “Hannah is an outstanding example of what the Federation stands for. Her commitment to victims, her tireless support for
colleagues, and her determination to raise standards across policing mark her out as a truly exceptional officer and representative. “Whether leading nationally recognised training, mentoring colleagues through the most challenging moments of their careers, or advocating with compassion and integrity as a Federation rep, Hannah consistently puts people first. This award is richly deserved and reflects not only her professional excellence, but the values she brings to policing every single day. We are incredibly proud to have her representing officers in the City of London.”
Police Federation Members receive up to 15% discount off Airport Parking.
Book at:
aph.com/pfed
23 | POLICE | FEBRUARY | 2026
15%
SAVE UP TO
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42
