Wiltshire Police awarded for support of military veterans

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 15 Oct, 15:02 · Archive

Wiltshire Police has received a Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Award for supporting the Armed Forces community.

Wiltshire Police was presented with a Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Award on Tuesday, October 13 at Devizes Town Hall. The award recognises employers which support serving personnel, veterans, reservists, cadet force adult volunteers and military spouses and partners.

Among those representing Wiltshire Police was Paul Cooper, senior manager for Crime Scene Investigation, who served 23 years in the Army as a Royal Military Policeman. He attended alongside Sergeant Jennie Howells, a response officer in Salisbury who previously spent 12 years with the Royal Engineers.

Mr Cooper said his move from the Army into policing felt like a 'natural transition', with skills developed during military service transferring into his new career. He said: 'Leadership, investigation, forensics, intelligence gathering, teamwork, commitment and a strong sense of public service all play a vital role in both careers.' However, he highlighted the challenges some veterans can face when moving into civilian employment after experiencing difficult or traumatic situations. He said: 'That's why having the right support in place is so important. We want people to know they can continue to thrive and build successful careers with us.'

Wiltshire Police launched an Armed Forces Staff Support Network last year, bringing together serving personnel, veterans and employees who have family connections to the Armed Forces. The network offers support, guidance and development opportunities.

How it is being reported

• Police honoured for support of military veteransFormer soldiers who swapped military service for careers in policing have helped secure national recognition.Wiltshire Times · 15 Oct, 13:41
• Police honoured for support of military veteransFormer soldiers who swapped military service for careers in policing have helped secure national recognition.Gazette & Herald · 15 Oct, 13:41

In this story: Wiltshire Police · Paul Cooper · Jennie Howells · Devizes · Salisbury

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