Planning Protector Policing the Conservative Party Annual Conference
STARS Awards 2017
Winners revealed Media Roadshow
Coming to a borough near you Bridging the gap Introducing GMP’s new Victim Service Co-ordinators
Columns
GMP stands proud AFTER a challenging summer where we were faced with an exceptional number of incidents, issues and demands, it has been great to recognise hard work and dedication through the STARS awards. It was a great night that allowed us time to reflect on what goes on in GMP day in day out.
All those nominated had amazing stories to tell about how they had helped communities and brought people to justice. We will also be announcing details shortly of special recognition in relation to the attack at Manchester Arena. Despite all the challenges that policing faces, we are still able to welcome talented new recruits who want to join. It is great for us to be part of the Police Now programme and to welcome the recruits through this tough process. The new recruits are still only allowing us to stand still at 6,200 officers which is something I am in continued discussions with the Mayor and Deputy Mayor about. It makes the work on the Target Operating Model (TOM) vital to ensure we can provide the best possible service with the demands we face and the
staffing we currently have. We have used the elements of the TOM to outline our way forward over the next couple of years focusing on the priorities now and work for the future. Further information will be shared in the coming weeks, with details of how you can get involved. This has been an unprecedented year for Greater Manchester Police and we continue to demonstrate what we can achieve despite the pressures we face.
Ian Hopkins, Chief Constable
Note from the Editor WELCOME to the first note from the Editor. Each issue is created by the Internal Communications team with a different lead editor each time. We aim to bring you the main themes affecting the Force and interesting stories from the lives of people in GMP. This issue is a change in focus from the previous which was a tribute to the Manchester Arena attack. In this issue we delve into the planning of Operation Protector and the lengths they go to ensure the conference runs smoothly with little disruption to the people of Greater Manchester.
2
We also provide you with a round up of the main themes and news since the last issue including the STARS awards, celebrating GMP’s finest. We want Brief to be a magazine for the people of GMP. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with stories and ideas of what you’d like to see in future editions by email at brief@gmp.police.uk.
Fiona Carroll, Lead Editor GMP’s shining stars: Officers and staff were rewarded in October’s STARS awards in the stunning Imperial War Museum in Salford
Spotlight
4 Around the world, ACC Shewan on iOPS 5 News In Brief 6-7 Divisional Roundup 8 What’s Trending 9 Op Rudow drug success, Jewish High 13 Comms on tour: Media roadshow Holy Days patrols 10 Police Now recruits, 4 steps to a more 14 -15 Chief Constable’s STARS efficient GMP, PLOD launch 16 Planning and protecting the city 11 HMICFRS authority report, TOM 17 Victim Services Coordinators
21 GMP keeps it moving— National Fitness day, OCB fun day
22 GMP Waterpolo team, 30 years of black history
23 GMP’s oldest response officer, Guided from above
24 HQ gets some puppy love, The discount guru, Blue Light team of the year
With thanks to the following people for their contribution to this issue:
Ch Insp Steve Worth
Hayley Wynne
Mike Crone
Rachel Holland
Ch Insp Jo Marshall-Bell
Rebecca Sutcliffe
Kieanna Jackson
25 Images from Manchester Pride Parade
Be published in Brief
update—a clearer vision for policing
Editorial team: Fiona Carroll, Melissa Pye, Melissa Thomson– Mead
12 National Police Memorial
Photographers: Chris Oldham and Bill Morris 0161 856 2777 | Picture Desk: Lisa Marks 0161 856 2279
Service, Citizen Contract update
GMP Life 18 Letters of Appreciation Members of the public thank officers and staff for their work
19 Obituaries Remembering GMP’s fallen
20 Adverts, What’s on & Caption Competition
Contents
News
Designed and produced by: Corporate Communications, Force Headquarters, Central Park, M40 5BP Contact numbers: 0161 85 65939 / 5938 Email: Brief@gmp.police.uk Brief online: www.gmp.police.uk/Brief
Articles and contributions for the next edition of Brief should be submitted by
Monday 6 November 2017 3
News
Around the world USA A man suspected of arson and vandalism sent a selfie to police in Ohio in the US because he found the photo on his arrest warrant unflattering. Donald "Chip" Pugh texted police a photo of himself and wrote: "Here is a better photo, that one is terrible". He told a local radio station: "Man, they just did me wrong. They put a picture out that made me look like James Brown on the run. I can't do that." Lima Police Department responded by saying: "We thank him for being helpful, but now we would appreciate it if he would come to speak to us." He was later arrested in Florida.
England A hapless hold up of a newsagent in Abingdon left a burglar on his back. During his attempted heist, James Allan removed his balaclava, fell over a drinks display and then could not open the door to escape - because he was pushing it instead of pulling. The lady he had just held up had to come and open it for him.
The thief falling over the drinks display
Scotland
The man sent a text with a “cooler” photo
4
ACC Shewan talks iOPS
A man who tried to rob a Glasgow bookmakers while "armed" with a cucumber came unstuck when he was tackled to the ground by an off-duty police officer. Gary Rough brandished the vegetable - covered in a black sock at a worker at Ladbrokes and demanded cash, which they refused. He initially told police it was all a "joke" before enquiring: "Am I getting the jail for this?"
“It is an exciting time for GMP at the moment – as hopefully most of you are aware, the Force is changing the way we protect society and help to keep people safe. In this update, I’d like to focus on our investment in IT with the introduction of iOPS. “I have Chief Officer responsibility for delivering iOPS. The new system will be key in supporting us to get us to where we need to be as an organisation. For example, iOPS will allow us to link digital evidence and documents to a crime which will help us make better informed decisions and problem solve at the earliest opportunity. It will also give users the ability to create problem solving investigations based on intel from citizens and community contacts and allow the OCB to inform citizens if an investigation is ongoing - this will not only support us to provide a more professional service but helps us to reduce future demand. “The system we go live with in March next year will be updated with new functionality as it develops further so we can continue to provide our officers and staff with the right tools to do our jobs. “Over the summer, the iOPS team has been working with hundreds of colleagues from across the Force to design the new system to not only meet the needs of today but also for the future. The system is currently being built and once ready towards the end of the year, we will involve more officers and staff to test it and make sure it is fit for operational use. I should stress that this deployment is the biggest IT change the Force has undertaken in decades, and as with any large scale technology roll out, there are bound to be a few bugs, but the team will be working hard to resolve them as quickly as possible. The iOPS team are also finalising the training content ahead of e-learning in December and delivery of classroom and ‘virtual’ training between January and go-live in March. Getting 9,500 colleagues trained in 12 weeks is not easy, so please do make every effort to attend your allocated slots, if we don’t meet our training thresholds then it will impact our decision to go-live.” Keep an eye out for further details from your Bronze groups about iOPS training and opportunities to see the system in action.
Gary Murray from the organisation said: “We are delighted to recognise the great work that has taken place in Salford and all the partners involved.” The winning play was created by Harrop Fold School in Little Hulton and turned into a gritty, 20 minute film which was made by students from UTC@MediaCityUK, working with professional actors. Superintendent Mark Kenny said:
News
The apprenticeship is a 12 month programme, involving learning and development to achieve a recognised qualification intermediate (Level 2) apprenticeship in either Business Administration or Customer Service, THE GMP Museum has had it’s SEPTEMBER welcomed 91 whilst being paid. biggest summer to date with over 6,200 apprentices to GMP, the biggest cohort After six months they can start to visitors joining them over the school so far since the scheme launched in apply for internal vacancies in the holidays. Thanks to all from the dog unit 2012, with a further 150 planned intakes organisation. We have had many and forensics who gave up their time to in January and March 2018. success stories over the years, with come and visit the Museum to enhance Of the 91apprentices, 86 are on apprentices becoming Student Officers, the visitor’s experience. various divisions and branches as Radio Operators, Call Handlers and Administrative Support Apprentices and Local Resolution Officers, as well as five have been posted to the OCB as “The addition of the finger working in various administrative Operational Communication functions across GMP. print activity and meeting Apprentices. For further information about the Theo the police dog and his They will perform a vital role in GMP, apprenticeship programme, please handler were very exciting working alongside police officers and email Amanda Mosley, Apprenticeship for the children. Well worth staff in a variety of teams providing Co-ordinator administrative support and excellent a visit” (amanda.mosley@gmp.police.uk) customer service to our partners and the public. OFFICERS from Salford along with pupils and council staff have been It made a lot of people’s day to be able awarded the Crimestoppers Chief to interact with GMP in such a positive Constable’s Award as part of Stand up way and the teams really are a credit to for Salford. The project aims to teach the force in the way they engaged with school pupils about organised crime, its the public. dangers and the impact that it has on communities and steer any pupils at risk The Museum team have expressed of involvement in crime into positive their personal thanks for the friendliness activities. It also promotes Fearless, and professionalism shown and for all Crimestoppers’ dedicated youth service. the assistance they received. Without this support they would not be able to The award is an annual accolade to 16-year-old apprentice Sabeeya Mahmood, attract as many visitors and continue to recognise a team which does the most administrative support Rochdale grow their reputation. to promote and support the work of Crimestoppers.
Supt Mark Kenny with Crimestoppers chair Edith Conn
“We have engaged with hundreds of young people across Salford since the scheme was launched last year, educating them on the dangers of getting involved in gangs and ultimately encouraging them not to. “Stand up for Salford is part of Salford’s Project Gulf which brings together 20 different local agencies, including the emergency services, council, health and housing authorities, to tackle crime and show young people positive alternatives.”
5
Divisional News
Divisional Roundup Rochdale THIS year GMP joined the 10th anniversary of the Rochdale Feel Good Festival, aimed at celebrating local talent and 160 years of policing in Rochdale. PC Mike Cartwright planned the event together with partners including RMBC and GMFRS. Internal police branches also made the day special with Traffic, Mounted and the Dog Unit attending. The event was well received and boosted the community spirit as well as strengthening the police relationship with the locals.
Tameside SUNDAY 10 September saw Denton’s annual carnival being held. Over 1,000 attended including local councillors, both neighbourhood policing teams, traffic and the Mounted Unit. There were a number of stalls including a DJ and officers gave out crime prevention advice. It was a truly enjoyable day for all.
Wigan PC Sophie Hicks and PC Samantha Reynolds volunteered to stay on duty beyond their finish time, such was their passion and determination to find a 12 year old missing girl. By systematically following lines of enquiry, visiting addresses and speaking to potential witnesses, they were able to located the girl with two men aged 29 and 30. Sophie and Samantha promptly arrested the males on suspicion of child abduction and secured the girl’s safety. Thanks to their excellent police work and dedication they have prevented further offences occurring and have made sure that an extremely vulnerable child was safeguarded.
Salford SALFORD West have teamed up with Salford City Council to fund events to increase cycle safety and security awareness in schools. There were a series of skills sessions with Dirt Factory and GMP funded the provision of bike locks. There were officers on hand to give security advice and to register the bikes on the Immobilise website.
Bury PCSO Claire Diack arranged a trip to the National Memorial Arboretum for the Bury Veterans group, with money from the ARIS fund. It was a thought-provoking visit that left many, including Claire, grateful to all of those that gave up their lives.
Oldham OFFICERS and PCSOs from Oldham division have ‘braved the shave’ to raise funds for MacMillan Cancer Research. Sgt Danny Atherton came up with the idea when he heard about the national ‘Brave the Shave’ campaign on the radio. “I thought it would be a great way of bringing people together,
6
having a bit of fun and raising money for a fantastic cause. I organised for a local barber to come along and we set up a prime spot outside Primark in Oldham town centre. Hundreds of people gathered around to watch as five of us either got our heads shaved or legs waxed. “I hadn’t really thought about how I
would look after my head got shaved right down to the bone – I nearly fell over when I saw myself! My daughter wondered what had happened to her dad!” The courageous team raised over £900 for the charity through the event which took place on Friday 1 September.
PCSO Gary Carter, PCSO Tony Riley, Sgt Danny Atherton, PC Lee Aldcroft & PC Damieon Hartley-Pickles
CADETS and officers from Trafford attended the Manchester United Legends match on Saturday 2 September. The match featured legends from United and Barcelona and had an array of family friendly activities in the “Fanzone” including Disney princesses, superheroes and skills training. PC Paul David and PCSO Stephen Wright along with a number of cadets engaged with families, offering safety advice and posing for pictures. Paul, a life-long Manchester City fan commented that it was a “brilliant day, considering it was at Old Trafford.”
Bolton OFFICERS from Bolton have the Voice of the Child at domestic celebrated Fort Alice’s 40th Birthday abuse incidents with really impactful by delivering domestic drawings by children of abuse training to staff. domestic abuse they have suffered. Fort Alice is a refuge for women and children fleeing This partnership offers a wide domestic abuse in the range of services such as Bolton area. Strive, IRIS and family mediation. It provides emergency accommodation and a range of support services to assist women, children and young people who have or are experiencing domestic abuse. They aim to raise personal and public awareness of the issue relating to domestic abuse and its impact on society. D/Insp Tanya Kitchen (Bolton PPIU), DCI Chris Fort Alice CEO Gill Smallwood has Bridge (Bolton), Maxine Peake (patron), assisted Bolton and Bury in delivering Rafael Martinez (Bolton Council Community Safety Manager) and CEO Gill Smallwood training to staff around how to capture
City of Manchester
PCSO Stephen Wright and PC Paul David with Cadets
TWO men have been sentenced after more than £45,000 worth of spice was seized in Moston. Anthony Hunt was sentenced to over seven years after pleading guilty to a raft of drugs offences. His associate John O’Brien was given a 12-month suspended sentence after
pleading guilty to possession with intent to supply heroin and cocaine. Sergeant Ian Haselden said: “This was one of the most significant seizures of spice we have had in Greater Manchester which clearly indicates that Anthony Hunt was prolific in his
Divisional News
Trafford
Airport A passenger onboard a flight from Manchester to Hurghada, Egypt drank nearly a full bottle of gin and created a serious disruptive incident on the aircraft during landing. She got out of her seat, lost all physical control and assaulted crew and another passenger who tried to restrain her. The restraint kit was applied.
Stockport STOCKPORT had tried a few tactics to reduce the number of burglaries and have now formed a burglary team to tackle the increase of incidents in their division. The team consists of a sergeant, a detective constable and five constables, all of whom will be on attachment to the unit for six months. Initially the team will focus on a review of existing crimes to identify those with positive lines of enquiry and offender links. They will also aim to attend burglaries and deal with burglary prisoners where possible.
distribution of it.”
7
What’s Trending?
World Animal Day
ON Wednesday 4 October Twitter was awash with adorable pictures of animals in celebration of World Animal Day. GMP’s Twitter account shared an image of some of the animals that work and play at GMP. In response we had more than 80 messages from the public sharing their pet images. We had everything; fluffy dogs, cute kittens and snuggly bunnies - even a raccoon!
GMP goes 360°
8
The Detectives THE four part documentary following the work of the MIT has taken the UK by storm, receiving national praise and plenty of public engagement.
A drug gang has received jail sentences totalling 96 years after a successful GMP operation.
DCI Paul Walker pictured with the mobile display
EACH year hundreds of people take to the streets to celebrate the Jewish High Holy days and during this time GMP work with the CST (Community Security Trust) volunteers to help police the streets.
Building trust
Chief Inspector Jo Marshall-Bell tells us what it’s like to plan and lead on the operation that covers a number of districts in GMP. ‘’The planning for Operation Ironside (Picton) started some months before the event with meetings involving police, CST partners and volunteers from the local area. What became apparent this year was that there was a real sense of anxiety amongst the residents and it was essential we were able to set up an operation that reassured and worked for our community. “The team came up with the idea of a WhatsApp
Operation Rudow was a yearlong multiagency operation to infiltrate and disrupt the supply of Class A drugs across North Manchester. The operation targeted drug hotlines where people placed orders over the phone and then have the drugs dropped off by
car or bike. The “Kieran Line” supplied heroin and crack around the Rochdale canal whilst the “Paddy Line” targeted the area around Oldham road. Surveillance and tip offs from the local community led to raids in a number of areas where cash, drugs, guns and, in one case, over 150 rounds of ammunition were recovered. Detective Chief Inspector Paul Walker commented: “People told us they wanted to see drugs tackled
group with the aim of rapidly sharing information with each other across divisions and the CST. Mobile police stations were set up in both Bury and Salford with Sedgley Lodge also became a reporting centre. “The relationship between GMP and the CST is extremely good, we work really closely together with joint high visibility patrols taking place in the Bury and Salford areas and single agency patrols across the other areas in the CoM, Trafford and Stockport during the celebrations. The key aim is to allow the Jewish community to celebrate safely. “This year I co-located myself on each high holy day with the CST staff at their offices. I also committed to observing the customs and practises of each event with my CST colleagues. What really stood out to me during patrols this year was the warmth, friendliness and thanks the community had for what the police and the CST do at this time. They seemed quite amazed and thrilled by my traditional Hebrew responses (albeit slightly out on pronunciation) appropriate to the relevant holy day.
News
Operation Rudow: Dismantling Manchester’s drug lines where they live, and thanks to community intelligence we have put 29 drug dealers in prison for a total of 96 years. I hope this shows people how seriously we take these offences and that when communities come to us with concerns about drugs, we will act upon them. These sentences mark the end of a year’s worth of hard work from everyone on my team and I want to thank them all for their efforts in securing this fantastic result”.
‘”I attended a traditional Rosh Hashanah dinner with a member of the community and I also fasted for Yom Kippur which was a lot harder.” Amanda Bomsztyk – Northern Regional Director stated that: “This year we had the added benefit of having Silver command based at the CST office, enabling a fast response when needed. It was really appreciated that Jo went the extra mile and made the time to embrace not just the policing side of the operation, but also the community’s customs.”
9
News
Four steps to contact GMP THE first nine officers to be recruited into GMP via the national Police Now scheme have started their journey with us. The two year placement gives the officers, who have non-policing backgrounds, the chance to become a leader in a local community and experience in a frontline policing role right from the start. The officers applied via the national police recruitment programme Police Now, which is targeted at graduates and young professionals. The officers will learn negotiation, problem-solving, decision making and many other key leadership skills in the role of Neighbourhood Beat Officer. At the end of their placement, they will decide if they wish to continue their roles or apply for other positions within GMP, dependant on what is available at the time. The scheme is different to the Fast Track programme for officers in that there is no guarantee of promotion upon completion. Amy Beckett, one of the nine new officers, said: “I was a Special Constable at Leicestershire for two and a half years. I loved being a Special, they rely heavily on volunteer officers and, as such, you felt very valued by the other officers. I’m looking forward to immersing myself as an NBO and coming up with new ideas. I’m passionate about working with kids around 7 or 8 years old as I believe this is the point that we can make a big impact on them and create safer communities.” Click here for more information.
10
IN August the ‘4 Step Rule’ was launched to educate the public on how best to contact GMP. In this revolutionary new campaign the aim is to empower the public to help them make the right choice when deciding how to contact GMP. The campaign has come about due to the increase in demand on 101 and 999 calls received. GMP saw 1.5 million calls in the year leading up to July 2017. Our aim is to reduce this demand and educate the public on how best to resolve their problem so that we free up 101 and 999 for the right calls. ACC Vanessa Jardine said: “At a time when we’re working to ensure we are focused on keeping people
safe we are always looking to find new ways to work more efficiently and effectively. This includes looking at how we can provide access to services in the most effective way possible. “We need to encourage people to think a little differently than they have before – calling us on 101 is often people’s go-to reaction when they need advice outside of an emergency. We want to help people realise that there is already lots of information out there, that sometimes there are more appropriate or specialist services available but that
ultimately, we will always be on hand if someone needs us.” The new #GMP4U campaign is designed to help people get the best help as quickly as possible. The “4 Step Rule” asks people to consider; who they contact about an issue, if information is already readily available or whether they should be calling 101 or 999. Click here for more information.
Engaging with our deaf communities WEDNESDAY 4 October saw the launch of GMP’s Police Link Officers for the Deaf (PLOD) service. Members of the deaf community along with key stakeholders travelled to Force HQ for a presentation led by PCSO Rachel Holland. Here they got to find out all about the new scheme, meet the 11 new PLOD officers and interact with the rest of the partners in the room. PLOD officers are trained in BSL to at least Level 3 and are there to spread awareness and help officers
communicate with deaf communities but are not there to act as an interpreter. GMP hopes that the introduction of these new roles combined with the continued use of Sign Video will enable us to build better relationships with our deaf communities. If you are Level 3 trained or above in BSL and would like to find out more about becoming a PLOD officer please email diversity@gmp.police.uk
News
A clear vision for GMP OFFICERS and staff will be given more information regarding the direction and vision of GMP, following a strategic review which took place this summer which looked at our Target Operating Model (TOM).
They are:
demand at first point of contact, to enable us to better problem solve and work more proactively with Achieve better outcomes through place based our partners and communities. Ensuring that our organisation is ready for day one of iOPS will also working take precedence. Prioritise activity according to threat, harm To help everyone to understand what is Our overall purpose is the same: ‘To protect and risk happening and when, we will be working with each society and help keep people safe’. Build a relationship with the people of Greater branch and division to make sure that you are Most of our officers and staff will be familiar with Manchester (formerly Citizen Contract) regularly updated with the changes that will affect the five principles of the TOM, which was launched Develop and support our workforce to change your role. two years ago as Chief Constable Ian Hopkin’s the way we work vision for GMP and the way we will police in the A communication pack will be available shortly Embrace opportunities from information and future. These five areas will remain the key strands that will include an updated overview of the TOM technology of the TOM strategy, with some additional wording to strategy and a Force Roadmap that shows the assist understanding of each area. various change activity over the next five years. Our priority will be the work that helps reduce
GMP highlighted for good practice GMP has been noted for its good work in a recent HMIC report on police abuse of authority for a sexual purpose. Whilst the overall report raised some concerns at a national level, GMP was highlighted as a beacon of good practice in how to tackle such behaviour and raise awareness amongst its staff. The letter from HMIC read: “We were pleased to find that your plans submitted in response to our
recommendation were comprehensive, and also reflected the national strategy agreed at the National Police Chiefs’ Council in April of this year. We found evidence in your plans of a review of the capability and capacity of your counter-corruption unit, improvements to your IT systems’ monitoring capability and initiatives to seek intelligence from those organisations that support vulnerable people. Work to implement all three elements had already
started at the time of our review.” The Professional Standards Branch are continuing their work to educate officers and staff to prevent further incidents of this kind.
11
News
“It is important that there is something each year, where they can come together with other people who have been in the same position as them, and just SUNDAY 24 September saw officers from GMP remember what John and others like him gave for the service, and for us to be able to say thank you to attend the National Police Memorial Day service them. in Cardiff to remember and honour the courage and ultimate sacrifice of fallen police officers “That’s a really important part of being here today, throughout the UK. to just say thank you to those families for everything This year Pamela Knee, the sister of fallen GMP that they have sacrificed, and show that we still care officer PC John Egerton, lit a candle at St David’s Hall about them.” to remember fallen officers from all English forces. CC Hopkins said that “this year’s service was PC Egerton was murdered on 11 March 1982, particularly poignant given the heightened threat from aged just 20. He was posthumously awarded the terrorism following the Queen’s Commendation for Brave Conduct. attacks in London and Chief Constable Ian Hopkins attended the event, Manchester”. which he said was an opportunity for the service to He added: “Actually this say thank you to the families of those who have made reminds the people of the the ultimate sacrifice. United Kingdom that Speaking about PC Egerton, CC Hopkins said: ultimately police officers do, “John was 20 years old when we was killed in Bolton on occasion, lose their lives in 1982, we haven’t forgotten and I think it’s right that in the line of duty. his family see that we don’t forget. “Given what we’ve gone
through this year and the unprecedented threat that we’re facing from terrorism, I think it’s a timely reminder for people that the UK police service is the best police service in the world, and that we are routinely still unarmed and actually, on occasion, our colleagues do lose their lives. “It’s a very powerful message that the public get to see the sacrifice that people made, and see the police service coming together today. And it’s wonderful stood here in the middle of Cardiff to see so many members of the public just coming and looking at what’s going on.”
the challenges to policing and to ask local people about their priorities. More than 2,500 people completed the survey to help develop the wording of the agreement. After reviewing all the feedback and information a workshop was held in September to write the agreement and the 14 bullet points are now being shared for further consultation with some of those who provided feedback at the start. The agreement with local people is a key element THE final phase of consultation on the wording of of the Target Operating Model and it outlines how we what will become an agreement between GMP and its will transform policing to continue to provide the best communities is underway. possible service given the challenges. But it is also Earlier this year consultation took place to discuss clear about the actions and support required from
local people as part of the changes to policing. Head of Corporate Communications Amanda Coleman said: “People were really keen to get involved in the original consultation and to give us their views and they started to understand the impact of recent years on policing. “This is the start of the conversation with local people about the future of policing and something that we will continue in the weeks, months and years ahead.” The final agreement will hopefully be ready to publicise in November and will be shared across the Force before communities.
Honouring the fallen
Connecting with communities
12
CC Ian Hopkins pictured with officers and family members
implications, social media, media law, interviews with journalists and how best to work with us. Press Office and Internal Communications manager Adrian Worsley commented: “The IN this fast-paced digital era, media and media impacts upon all of our daily lives, and social media are now a part of our daily lives. From witness appeals to court cases, as part of the police family, understanding how intranet articles to campaigns, many of you the media works, what they need, and perhaps most importantly, how they can help will need the services of the Corporate you to get your messages out, is key. Communications branch at some point. “In a time where the use of social media continues to rise and public scrutiny of police Corporate Communications is located on is at a high, working with the media and the ground floor of Force HQ and consists of embracing opportunities to reach communities six main teams. The GMP Band and the is vital.” Museum are also part of the branch but are based at different locations. The main aim of the branch is to provide a comprehensive professional communication approach to the Corporate Communications Force, working with partners to ensure an efficient and effective service. Branch statistics The Media Roadshow have been on tour visiting each division and giving an insight into 400,000+ followers on Twitter just how Corporate Communications work and 145,000+ likes on Facebook how they can help you. The session last 960 press releases sent out a year around two hours and covers each of the 15,000 media calls a year teams, their responsibilities and how you can work with them, this includes; Internal Communications, Digital, Corporate Media Imaging, Awards and Public Relations. There will be a special emphasis on the work of the Press Office team including; legal
500 intranet articles a year All force priority campaigns Over 25 Awards & Attestation ceremonies a year
Spotlight
Stop the press: Your guide to media management Successful Case Study: Stolen French Bulldog puppies
What happened: Offenders used a garden fork to break into a house in Oldham and stole French Bulldog puppies worth around £20,000.
What did we do: The DS investigating contacted us and asked for advice, we agreed to do an appeal and invited the media in for both officer and victim interviews.
What was the result: After the appeal, a call came in with a dog sighting, officers were sent round to a house and recovered one of the puppies, reuniting him with his owners.
13
Service by police staff– Kerry Versfeld (SCD) Service by a police officer– DS Rebecca Mills (Trafford) Service by a GMP volunteer– Hassan Khan, Chloe Carey and Abdullah Ahmed (Cadets) Service by a PCSO– Salim Ali
FRIDAY 6 October saw the second annual Chief Constable’s STARS Awards. A fantastic night filled with excitement, anticipation and pride. All the nominated finalists attended the event with nervous excitement as one by one the winners were announced. The STARS awards recognise the best in the Force and pays tribute to those who go above and beyond in their daily work. This year’s ceremony saw a return to the Imperial War Museum North with proceedings opened by host Chief Constable Ian Hopkins and compered by radio star Mike Sweeney. His heartfelt and sincere tributes along with his quick wit soon won the audience over. As each winner was called and made their way to the stage, they were accompanied by a suitable soundtrack. Dog handler PC Gareth Greaves walked up to the musical stylings of “who let the dogs out” which raised the most laughs. The event raised £1,480 for Mike’s nominated charity, the North West Air Ambulance. After the ceremony had finished staff were able to boogie the night away to the sounds of the GMP band and their fantastic singers. All in all it was a successful evening celebrating GMP’s finest.
Cadets with Mike Sweeney, The Chief and Adrian Bloor from Police Mutual
Neighbourhood Teams– Oldham Town Centre and St Mary’s Neighbourhood team. Teamwork– Phoenix Team, Stockport Part of the Phoenix Team with The Chief and Mike Sweeney
Innovation and best practice– PC Gareth Greaves
Investigative excellence– The Man on the Moors Team
Dog Handler PC Gareth Greaves
Awareness and Support Victoria Southwell– Rochdale The Karin Mullingan Award– The PLOD Team (Police Link officers for the Deaf)
PLOD team with Claudia Mulligan, Mike Sweeney and the Chief
First aid– PC Martin Burkinshaw (Wigan) Bravery– Nicholas Lees—City of Manchester Keep Safe– Mason Shaw Investigation Team, CoM PC Dave Stapely, PC Colin Bradbury, DC Jonathan Barnett, DC Matthew Cooper, DC Mark Anderson, Insp Geoffrey Machent
PC Martin Burkinshaw with Mike Sweeney and the Chief
Bravery—Nicholas Lees, CoM Nicholas and his colleague Laura searched for a man in distress and found him jumping into a river from a bridge. Nicholas immediately made his way down and dived into the water. The man struggled and Nicholas was dragged under the ice cold water with him several times. Eventually though he managed to manoeuvre the man onto the riverbank. The man was taken to hospital and was treated for both his physical and mental health. Nicholas undoubtedly saved the life of a very vulnerable member of our community.
Teamwork—Neighbourhood Teams – Oldham Town Centre and St Mary’s Neighbourhood team. The Oldham team have done an amazing amount of community work this year. They have been involved in over 10 events raising funds for local charities. They have also built some very strong links with local youth groups and sporting clubs and have engaged with many of the diverse communities in their area. Many of the staff are learning sign language. They have even linked in with a local men’s mental health group. This is all in addition to their regular police work.
Service by a police officer– DS Rebecca Mills (Trafford) Rebecca investigated a knifepoint stranger rape. The victim had been subjected to more than one assault over several hours in her home. Identification through DNA was made and the offender was eventually convicted to life imprisonment. Rebecca’s care, compassion and support of the victim were superb. She helped to arrange housing for her, supported her finding temporary work and assisted in getting her back to university. The victim also felt so well supported that she was able to stand in court unscreened, facing the offender.
Spotlight
provided traffic management, street cleaning, and event planners for major protest marches. Overall the conference lasted four days and a total of 13,000 delegates, workforce and security staff along in the event, GMP wanted to portray a with eight protected persons. There professional image and highlight the were also numerous protests during the City of Manchester in a positive light. week, the largest In April, a 16 strong, multibeing 35,000 people disciplined planning team was formed marching on Sunday and started to implement the policing 1 October. plan with security measures that were Chief Supt. John proportionate to the existing threat O’Hare, who led the level. This plan had to consider a range policing operation, of functions needed which included: said that: “This was firearms, roads policing, search, the most challenging contingencies, media, communications, Conference briefings, finance, intelligence, logistics operation to date and and site build to name a few. we had to consider a GMP also worked in partnership with range of threats numerous organisations to deliver the including terrorism, security plan. The Military provided crime and public specialist search assets with GMFRS order. There was a and NWAS, providing staff to work clear challenge from alongside GMP officers on chemical, the outset and the biological, radiological and nuclear team achieved (CBRN) incident planning. G4S also everything I asked. supplied over 300 guard force to assist “The feedback with security and local authorities from delegates, the
Planning and Protecting the city OPERATION Protector is the policing of the Conservative Party Annual Conference held in Manchester from 1 to 4 October 2017. Thousands of delegates, spectators and protestors arrived in Manchester for the event making this one of the largest operations GMP manages. The operation’s aim was to secure the conference to ensure it went ahead with little disruption, all whilst minimising the impact on Manchester city centre. With intense media interest
Officers with Chief Supt John O’Hare
16
Party Chairman and the Prime Minister has been incredibly positive and reflects the effort that has been put in over the last week. The operation demonstrated the highest levels of professionalism, set the highest of standards and represented Greater Manchester Police in the most positive light. I want to say a huge thank you to everyone involved, you should all be extremely proud of the hard work.” Click here to view a special video following GMP during the four day period giving an overview of the operation.
The Victim Services Coordinator responsibilities will include:
Successful implementation & delivery of the VS model.
Reviewing performance to improve services & support to victims.
Identifying and filling any gaps in support services for victims
Engage in & co-ordination of victim-focused activities.
Engage with officers & staff to strengthen systems & referrals.
Spotlight
Bridging the gap
They will not be regularly contacting victims of crime, as this will remain the responsibility of Victim Support. The new Victim Services Coordinators
A brand new team has been established within GMP as part of the Victim Services model. The Victim Services Coordinators (VSCs) are 11 GMP staff members who are based in each of our divisions, with two for the City of Manchester. They will play a major role in supporting and coordinating victim focused partnership working, so that we can help victims to cope and recover from the impact of the crime and reduce the likelihood of repeat victimisation. They will work closely to bridge the gap with a wide range of partners including Victim Support, who have been commissioned by the Deputy Mayor, to provide victims of any crime type, with practical, emotional and advocacy support. The support will be provided whether they choose to report the crime to the police or not. The VSCs bring a wealth of different experiences and skill sets to the role, which will be
based within existing multi-agency environments, some based in police stations whilst others in local authority buildings. Their experiences range from housing and youth offending service expertise to a former police officer; each has transferrable skills which are essential in their new role and will make a positive impact locally. Following the completion of their two week training, the VSCs are now on divisions and you are likely to see them in briefings soon.
Trafford – Mark Woodland City of Manchester – Anthony Simpson City of Manchester—Heather Morgan Please note that the coordinator for Wigan is still going through the vetting process and will be announced as soon as they are in post.
The team is as follows:
Bolton – Gemma McKee
Bury – Hazel Parry
Oldham – Sameena Akhtar
Rochdale – Louise Sever
Salford – Simon Mapp
Stockport – Julie Woodhouse
Tameside — Holly Seddon
17
Letters
Letters of Appreciation
18
Professionalism and dedication “I wanted to write to you to pay a short tribute to the professionalism and dedication of two of your officers DC Chris Pickup and DC Amy Beesley. The defendant Geoffrey Duke was charged with sexual abuse and rape of his three year old granddaughter. It goes without saying that the case was of the utmost gravity and was deeply unpleasant. Duke went onto claim that a male by the name of PW was the responsible party. The first trial was aborted when the trial judge decided that the mystery of PW required further exploration and the Judge directed that the police should undertake this frankly Herculean task of hunting down (what I described to the jury) as a phantom. Your officers then set about the task with commendable skill and effort. DC Pickup utilised every possible source to locate this man using the PNC, the national database, the electoral roll, local intelligence and the press. He produced some very interesting results and, following a national search, he located a number of men by the name of PW and was able to eliminate them from the enquiry.
DC Beesley was responsible for preparing and serving RIPA applications to Facebook and an email service provider. Both officers gave evidence before the jury and did so in a clear, sure-footed and impressive manner. Their expertise and presence with me at Court was invaluable. Both officers then played a crucial role at Court, not only assisting me but in family liaison, speaking with and supporting the parents and grandparent of the victim. I would like to respectfully recommend that the work of these two officers be recognised as you see fit. Duke was sent to prison for a period of 16 years.” CB, Barrister at Law Breaking barriers “I wanted to thank you for allowing your officers PC Gavin Crompton, PC Craig Shannon , PCSO Khalid Raza & PCSO Ian Moss to come along to our youth night. It went down really well and we received great feedback from the kids. They were great and engaged amazingly with our youth and it was such an enjoyable night for all. We believe these sorts of visits help build a good relationship, break barriers and
remove a negative stigma that the police have to carry daily. We welcome any future visits and we hope we can build on this great partnership.” Salford Youth Worker There in minutes I really wanted to feedback on the excellent support and work which has been done by PC Andrew Sheldrick and PC Abbas Ahmed. Last Friday I had my car stolen from my drive, I called 999 and within five minutes had four police men/women at my door. From that point on I've been regularly updated with information. As the vehicle was recovered in Cheshire, Andrew and Abbas also helped to liaise with the storage facility to get my car released. Belongings were taken from the car and both Andrew and Abbas have pursued the likely trail. To date four people have been arrested and a likely fifth. When I called the police I didn't expect to receive this level of help and support as I know how stretched the force is, but clearly the dedication of your PCs are helping to bridge this resource gap. Anon, Trafford
Message from Elaine McIver’s parents THE family of DC Elaine McIver, who was tragically killed in the MEN Arena terrorist attack in May, would like to send their huge thanks to CC Ian Hopkins and all the many others who gave their time and support to us immediately after and ongoing since the attack. We have felt humbled by the many cards and letters that we have received and these have been a great comfort to us all. Between us we also raised £10,000 including gift aid on Elaine's just giving page in aid of cancer research, a charity close to the family's heart which is amazing. We look forward to our visit to the mounted police who escorted Elaine's carriage at her funeral. We cannot thank everyone in person but want you all to know we will be forever grateful that we were surrounded by the police family and send huge Lainey Bear Hugs (she was well known for them by many people) to all who have made these last months more bearable for us. Thank you seems a small gesture but is said from the bottom of our hearts. Best wishes to all from Pat and Frank McIver, Paul Price and all Elaine's family.
Con Alan Oates, died 03/04/17,
Ch Insp Michael Glynn Silcock,
Father Anthony Lawton, died
Con Maurice Holt, died 09/07/17,
Det Con Leanne McKie, died
Con Derek Ellison, died 20/07/17,
30/6/17, age 84 Chaplain at Bury
29/9/17, age 39 Con Harrison Whittaker, died 27/06/17, age 89 Con Angus Fraser, died 14/04/17, age 92 Con James Mccomiskey , died 13/08/17, age 80 Con Geoffrey Molyneaux, died 01/08/17, age 84 Con Leslie Brian Orchard, died 20/04/17, age 86 Con William Barry Sullivan, died 20/04/17, age 56 Con Hugh James Mcguire, died 13/09/17, age 74 Con Harold David Grayson, died 30/06/17, age 70 Con Philip Arthur Yates, died 16/04/17, age 63 Con Michael John Goodier, died 12/05/17, age 62 Con Denis Harrison, died 25/08/17, age 63 Con Peter Bennett, died 01/08/17, age 84 Con William Douglas Renfrew, died 04/06/17, age 81 Con Harold Cullen, died 11/07/17, age 80 Con Michael Arthur Cordon, died 06/07/17, age 79
died 79
age 78 Insp/Sup Henry Glover, died 05/07/17, age 91 Insp/Sup Raymond Whetham, died 11/08/17, age 90 Insp/Sup Colin Burney, died 09/06/17, age 73 Insp/Sup Peter Davis, died 15/06/17, age 73 Insp Ifor lloyd Edwards, died 19/05/17, age 72 Insp/Sup Glyndwr Morgan, died 15/05/17, age 71 Insp/Supe John David Roderick Warburton, died 05/04/17, age 73 Insp/Sup John Mollison Cairns, died 18/07/17, age 82 Insp/Sup Gordon Ratcliffe, died 15/05/17, age 84 Insp/Sup John Michael Warner, died 17/04/17, age 82 Insp/Sup Christopher James Ratigan, died 14/08/17, age 83 Insp/Sup Colin David Ford, died 08/06/17, age 80 Con Norman Raymond Rimmer, died 06/04/17, age 90 Con Gordon Proud, died 24/04/17, age 87 Con Simon Woodcock, died 18/07/17, age 54
10/08/17, age 58 Con Stephen Charles Ruff, died 01/07/17, age 56 Con David Pearson, died 16/08/17, age 55 Con Anthony John Bolton, died 28/06/17, age 66 Con Robert Hugh Richard Hughes, died 03/08/17, age 61 Con Jack Lomas, died 13/05/17, age 85
age 82
died 08/09/17, age 62 Sgt Geoffrey William Knowles, died 27/08/17, age 59 Supt Frank John Doyle, died 11/07/17, age 61 Supt Leslie Howard Sadler, died 23/06/17, age 85
Obituaries
Obituaries
Con Brandon Paul Hull, died
Please note that this list may not be completely up-to-date. We also only receive a very limited amount of information on each person.
GMP remembers: Our first official Chaplain
RETIRED Force Chaplain Reverend Dennis Thomas, aged 83, sadly passed away on Thursday 24 August 2017. He was the First police chaplain in GMP under the then Chief Constable Sir James Anderton.
19
What’s On?
Looking for a new kitchen? Our showroom is at 123 Cross St. Sale, Cheshire M33 7JN. GRAN CANARIA, Puerto Rico. Newly refurbished Kitchen Forte offer a perfect combination of apt. Sleeps 4, sea views, south facing, large sun high quality cabinetry alongside an excellent terrace. Great location. Ideal for couples, fitting service that is second to none and all at families, small groups. No price increase in very affordable prices at the cutting edge of school hols. Call or text 07946 415721 for info. our industry. Visit www.kitchenforte.co.uk or call 0161 962 2263. LUXURY FLORIDA VILLA, 10 mins to Disney, 5 beds, 3 baths, games room, south facing pool and hot tub. Special GMP rate, exclusive location. Visit www.green viewsvilla.com or call 0161 973 1822.
Adverts
GREECE, Beautiful exclusive self-catering boutique apartments with superb beachfront location close to village of Vagia on wonderful Aegina island Greece. Visit www.thebeach housegreece.com or email info@thebeachhousegreece.com. Mention 'Brief' for discounted rates. For further information, please contact Andy Connell PIN 66598. Tel: 07867 468499.
Clocks go back
November 2 Thursday
October 20 Friday
Jamiroquai Manchester Arena
Manchester Arena
Little Mix
sday 31 Tue r e b o Oct Manchester November Christmas 10 Fridaymarkets ited v ster Un 4 r e be h em c ov N n open, city centre Ma a Saturday Benfic Manchester gue istmas ns Lea io Christmas p m Manchester Chr Cha Markets open lights switch on, City Centre Albert Square
November 10 Friday
WELL WORTH PAVING Block paving concreting, decking, flagging, fencing, turfing. Garage bases/footings. Walling and house drainage. 25 yrs experience - free quotes. Tel: 07974 349271.
CHIMNEY SWEEP, Police officer retrained as a LUXURY CORNWALL BARN, Moo Barn is a luxury Chimney Sweep. Fully insured. Will cover the Greater Manchester, Cheshire and Lancashire self-catering cottage, located on the Roseland areas. Discount for Police, friends and Peninsula, Cornwall. Moo Barn sleeps eight family. Contact Brent on 07773 759791. people and all rooms are en-suite. It has been a DOUBLE BEDROOM TO RENT (INC BILLS) happy holiday destination for many people since £450pcm - £40 deposit 2004. Contact: Own en-suite bathroom (inc shower, bath and Jeremy and Jenny wc) modern appliances, lounge/dining room Hedley 01872 530 and conservatory, broadband and ps4. Off 224 or road parking for two cars. October 7—January 7 www.mooboarn 1/2 mile from motorway and Moston Train cornwall.co.uk for Station is a few minutes Dinosaurs in the walk. wild, The Quays more details. Contact Dave 07787 875521.
20
October 29 Sunday
Caption Competition Send your ideas to brief@gmp.police.uk
“The very first pound shop uses cardboard cutout of Police officers to deter shoplifters.” PC Ian Thompson, Hyde
WEDNESDAY 27 September saw GMP employees donning their trainers and sweats and swapping the lifts for stairs as we joined the rest of the UK to take part in National Fitness Day. The day aimed at raising awareness of physical activity and how it can help us to lead healthier
and active lifestyles engages a number of audiences in a variety of settings including the office, the gym, living room and even the high street. Within GMP there was lots going on. PCSOs visited schools in Bolton to get the kids moving, Salford officers took part in a 6am rooftop workout, legal services chilled out with a yoga session and PSB managed to burn a total of 18,188 calories through cycling and a lunchtime walk. Trafford division decided to get
Fun and Funds out for the day with 22 officers taking part in a 5km run. Others were joined by members from the HR branch and local school children for a scenic bike ride. Overall it was a fantastic success and great to see so many of us getting involved, keep it up!
OCB recently held a fun day to encourage community spirit and boost morale amongst colleagues. There were numerous stalls and activities for adults and children with some fantastic prizes donated. It was also great for the public to have a sneaky insight into what the police do with the dogs, travel safe unit and TAU made an appearance on the day. The museum attended with their historical police items and there was even a special appearance from the birds of prey. The day was a huge success and a massive thank you to Andrew Massey and Beverley Travis for the planning and running of the day. They managed to raise ÂŁ900 for charity.
GMP Life
GMP keeps it moving
Dance through the decades ON FRIDAY 17 November the Windmill charity will be hosting an evening of musical delight as they take you through the decades. With live music from both the GMP band and a DJ, there is something for everyone to dance the night away.
Tickets are ÂŁ25 and will include hot food and entry into a luxury raffle. 7.30-1.00am, The Hough End Centre, M21 7SX
Mascots welcomed families at the fun day
Email windmill.fundraising@gmp.police.uk
21
GMP Life
Farewell to GMP’s oldest response officer
30 years of Black History Month GMP Force HQ became a hub of creative activity on Monday 2 October to honour 30 years of Black History Month. Inspirational speakers addressed an audience of 150 staff and officers; inspiring artwork was mounted in the atrium amongst an array of historical pictures and articles all with a link to Greater Manchester’s African and Caribbean communities. ACC Russ Jackson representing CT Policing North West and DC Paul Bailey, Chair of BAPA, opened the event. Former Manchester City footballer and Ambassador for City in the Community (CITC), Alex Williams MBE was an inspirational keynote speaker who spoke about his career and his MBE, but also the racism he was subjected to as a black footballer in the 1980s. Staff and officers who attended the launch were blown away by a performance from Marcus Hercules, founder of Hercules Productions. The one-man physical theatre performance
22
‘Prison Game’ focused on what happens when a person makes a series of wrong life choices to end up in the prison system and the subsequent reactions of those outside. The audience was also treated to an A Cappella performance of John Legend’s Ordinary People from Medy. Those attending were invited to speak to the Human Library who provided a first-hand perspective of what it means to be of African or Caribbean heritage in their line of work today: Peace Campaigner Dr. Erinma Bell MBE, who campaigned to remove illegally-held firearms from Moss Side, also artists from Chuck Art Gallery and Ekua Bayunu from Global Arts Manchester whose artwork was displayed. CT Policing North West also formed part of the library. Artwork, sculptures and historic material from Manchester University’s Ahmed Iqbal Ullah Race Relations Resource Centre were on display.
PC Michael (Mike) Crone retires through and continue to do so. age 62 holding the crown for the Back then you would set a task for oldest response officer. He tells us the newbie that was a bit of a wind up his story below. but it brought a sense of camaraderie “I have been a front line officer for plus the newbie would feel like they most of my career and up until I earned the respect of their peers. It retired last month was a bit of light age 62, I was still relief to help you level 2 and taser bond and establish trained. An trust. achievement in itself I remember with I think, although my fondness the colleagues would Peraquito hotel in remind me to “gaffer Oldham, sadly it’s tape my knees” gone now but we during any fitness would meet up say test, granted they’re 6.30am, jobs not what they once allowing, and the were. concierge would let The job has us in and make us Mike with his custom made changed in so many a brew and Zimmer frame ways; I remember biscuits. We talked the early days, about what jobs we walking your beat with just a 12” had all been to and how the night had “stick” in your pocket, now gone; nothing too major but it brought understandably we are a little better a sense of closeness. equipped. I’ve witnessed the changes in GMP Obviously there were more of us throughout my career and I know on “section” then, although the jobs times can be hard but I joined the haven’t changed but it was fun, the police for a reason, to make a banter kept morale high, yes, cops difference, and I feel proud of my have a dry sense of humour, some career, the people I’ve helped and the would say it’s needed to deal with the friends I’ve made along the way.” stresses of the job but the jokes got us
GMP Waterpolo Tournament ON Saturday 2 September, officers from GMP competed as part of the British Police Water Polo team in the Dave ‘Ralphy’ Briggs Charity Water Polo Tournament at Bury Castle Leisure Centre. Water polo is a highly physical and competitive team sport which involves teams of seven players attempting to score the most goals by throwing the ball into their opponent's goal. The tournament has been going since 2011 and is organised by GMP in memory of Dave ‘Ralphy’ Briggs, a Lancahsire officer who passed away in 2010. ‘Ralphy played goalkeeper for Radcliffe, then the Northwest and British police teams. He has played in many memorable water polo matches including winning a Gold medal in the World Police and Fire games in 1999. Over the years the tournament has raised over £4,000 for Cancer Research UK. He was a friend to everyone and is sorely missed by those who knew him. This year the teams battling it out were The British Police, The Royal Navy, Liverpool and Radcliffe with the
British Police team lifting the trophy. Members of GMP also compete in the Northwest Police team which is an amalgamation of GMP, Lancs, Cheshire and Merseyside staff. The team is open to anybody employed by GMP. They also compete in the Police Sport UK Championships, in which they came second this year. From that competition a British Police team is selected for various competitions throughout the year, we currently have four GMP staff on the British Police team. The GMP Swimming and Water Polo team is always looking for new members and anyone interested should contact Stephen Davidson 07917 650 664 or Katy Kirsten 073914 09 112. The next police sport UK event is being hosted by Merseyside police April 2018. To donate to the team and cancer research UK, visit the Just Giving page click here.
KELLY Griffiths has spoken of years to the day. her pride at being assigned her late Sadly Tony passed away before father’s collar number after his Kelly took up post as an officer and it death last year. was suggested to her by a colleague Kelly has been with GMP for 19 that she take on his collar number. She years, first as staff, then PCSO and made the request through HR and, was recently attested in August 2017 after consideration, was assigned his as an officer where she inherited her collar number. late father’s collar number. Kelly remembers the day she was Her father, Anthony (Tony) Griffiths, given the number; “I felt very emotional was an officer with GMP for 30 years and very proud to be able to wear it. before he retired as a detective Throughout his years as an officer my sergeant in 2003. He then went on to dad and his number have seen many work in Sierra Leone where he trained cases. For me it represents him and child protection officers. his memory. I feel that he is now my He re-joined GMP as a member of guardian angel sat on my shoulders, helping me through.” police staff in 2006 and at the time of his death on 26 October 2016, he was a Child Protection Case Conference Attendee with the Safeguarding Vulnerable People Unit. When Tony joined GMP on 31 July 1972 he was given the collar number 4564 and coincidentally Kelly’s start date as an officer was 31 July 2017 when she was given his collar number Kelly with the Chief at her attestation 04564, exactly 45
GMP Life
Guided from above
23
GMP Life
HQ gets some Puppy Love LOVE took over Force HQ on Tuesday 7 August as a bundle of furry friends descended onto the site. Wellbeing SPOCs from the Legal Services branch got in contact with the Guide Dogs Organisation and arranged for a few doggies and their owners to come in and meet members of staff. Not only were staff able to speak to the owners and volunteers first-hand and learn about the organisation and their experiences, but the emphasis from a wellbeing perspective, was extremely beneficial to our staff. Stroking of animals and the release of serotonin is proven to have therapeutic benefits and reduces stress levels so it was a great opportunity for staff to take time out. The star attractions included Bobby the Golden Retriever, Mr Quin the black Labrador, Pippa the German Shepherd and the delightful Labrador puppy Jack who was
The Discount Guru
so excited he had to be carried out sound asleep back to the car. Over 51 people attended on the day and each had a 15 minute slot with the dogs. Along with a cake sale to boost funds, the event raised a total of £450 for the Guide Dogs Organisation and now there are plans for a repeat event. For more information regarding the Guide Dogs or to find out how you can sponsor a puppy, visit there website here.
THE Discount Guru is here to reveal the secret discounts and money saving tips that GMP staff are entitled to. Join us in each edition of Brief to see where you could save a few pennies. GMP officers and staff can get up to 30% off Marriott Hotels across the UK and Europe with the use of their Government Sector
24
scheme. Simply select the “Government” promo code when booking online. Please note you will need to show your ID card upon checking in and all rooms are subject to availability.
Trio of awards for GMP’s Comms Team GMP’s Corporate Communications branch has been presented with an armful of awards for the continued support to the Force. The team received a special recognition award for Social Media for Good in the UK Social Media Communications awards in London in October. A few weeks earlier they were presented with Crisis Communication and Blue Light Team of the Year awards at the national Public Sector Communications Awards. The branch provides specialist communication support to the force including media management, digital developments, internal communication, campaigns and video and photography. The priority is to use communication, media, social media and PR activity to support frontline operational policing. If you want to find out more about what the Corporate Communications Branch does and how they may be able to help you check out the Intranet pages here.
Manchester Pride Parade 2017