From Yahoo to Nottinghamshire Police . . . how force's values inspired new emergency call handler to join up

Clare Hindson, 37, started her first shift this month and, following her in-depth training, is now being supported by tutors for a number of weeks before working independently.

Before joining the force, Clare worked for the global web services provider Yahoo!

Her role involved buying third-party content to feature on the company’s website.

She said: “It was a fantastic experience working for Yahoo! and I loved every second of it but I wanted to do something more meaningful.

“Having worked in news for a long time I really thought I had seen it all but after starting work as an emergency call handler it has become a lot more real.

“I’m helping real people who have been involved in incidents which is far more emotionally challenging than what I used to do.

“The training I received to prepare me for my new role was absolutely amazing and the tutors and mentors have been so supportive and reassuring.

“I have also been very impressed with the force’s approach to the welfare of its staff and its nature of inclusivity.

“I’m really enjoying my new role. I’m facing new challenges every day and it’s so rewarding being able to help people in need.”

Clare is among 16 new recruits, all from diverse backgrounds, who have this month taken on roles as emergency call handlers in the force control room and front counter enquiry officers.

Supt Suk Verma, head of contact management for police, said: “It is great to have such a mixture of talented people joining us from a wide range of backgrounds to help us improve organisational culture, as we continue to strive to be an employer of choice.

“Staff wellbeing is a huge priority for us. If we look after our staff, they in turn ensure we look after the communities that we serve, to the very best of our abilities.

“Our new recruits are all passionate about making a difference to the communities we serve and we will ensure they receive the support they need to succeed.”

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