Emergency Contact Handler Review

I am responsible for being the first point of contact for members of the public, taking emergency and non emergency calls. I have to ensure that I risk assess each call/ incident, and grade incidents appropriately for either deployment or an appointment, in line with force policy.

Yes! It's a completely different job to what I have had previously and whilst I have worked in fast paced environments and communicated with the public - this environment is different. I've strengthened these skills whilst also learning more about negotiating, risk assessments and IT skills.

I love what I do and I feel that where I am now is very aligned with my personal values. It has been difficult, it's been a bit of a steep learning curve, but I love to be challenged as that is when I feel I learn more.

The majority of learning for this role has been on the job, that is when I feel I have learnt the most too. There was a good solid class room basis, followed with mentoring before being in the room. I feel at times that due to the nature of the role, it was difficult to fit the written work around the role, and this could be improved.

There is a lot of support in the room, the mentoring phase was very supportive and this continued through team leaders in the room. No question is a silly question which is good when working in a role like this that is so varied from call to call.

Support is good, everyone is more than happy to help if you have any questions and always contactable. Support is given regularly through visits and written work feedback.

I feel that by doing the training for my qualification I have a deeper understanding of why I need to do things a certain way, and how to do things as per best practice. This means I will be able to perform to the very best of my ability and maintain high standards moving forward within my role.

Yes - there are sports and social societies and other volunteering opportunities that you can do alongside work if you wish. There are also things going on within the work place and plenty to get involved in.

Yes

I love working here, and I feel that this is my place. I think because I love what I do, what the objectives of the force are and I love helping others, whilst doing the right thing for the right reasons - I would recommend Northumbria Police to anyone else that feels the same way and who wants to make a difference. It's a hard job, but this is acknowledged in the support that we receive and it's very rewarding.

Ensure that you understand the force values and ethics, research the role and a little bit about Northumbria Police and show your enthusiasm for doing the right thing for the right reasons!