Life as a Special Constable - meet Lorna
Lorna joined as a Special Constable 7 months ago, she gave up her spare time to become a part-time police officer with the same powers as a full-time regular officer carrying out her policing duties alongside running a busy home and her other passion, equestrian psychology and rehabilitation. Lorna talks about what made her take the leap and finally send in her application to join Northamptonshire Polices Special Constabulary.
It's been quite the journey
I previously worked as a Sales Manager in the private sector for many years, I left this job, one I loved, to dedicate my 30s and early 40s to my family, raising 3 beautiful children.
Shortly after they reached school age I was in a horse riding accident which left my right arm temporarily paralysed, my husband and mother were a fantastic support network, helping where ever they could but my confidence had taken a knock. It was a huge physical and mental challenge to overcome this. The accident lead me to training and rehabilitating not only my own body but helped me find a new passion, working with horses with emotional needs which has been extremely gratifying and empowering to see their behaviours and happiness improve.
Now all my children are older and more independent I felt it was the right time to final try something new, for me.
I saw an advert to apply to become a Special Constable on social media back in 2020, during lockdown and began to fill out the application form but I didn't finish it, I quite honestly dismissed it and myself as being too old. It wasn't until I received a prompt asking me if I wanted to finish the application form that I thought why not, what's the harm in trying, since then it’s been quite a journey! The more I researched what being a Special Constable involved I knew it was right for me. Apprehension aside I finally submitted my application and haven't looked back since.
I am currently working in response and I absolutely love it, being part of a team of truly great people is so rewarding. Every day is different and so is every officer I meet, we all have a story. My confidence has grown so much and it’s given me renewed purpose and passion. My uniform lets me do what I love, talking to people and helping to make a difference .
What advice would you offer to anyone who is considering joining?
Don't think - act! I let myself doubt that I was good enough, young enough, for too long but I am so glad I didn't let that doubt win out. I bring life experience to the role and it is so valuable. If your open, honest and impartial form the start you will do yourself proud.
I often get asked what my proudest moment since joining the force has been and quite honestly its not one singular moment, its every time I put on my uniform and head out on shift, knowing that I have the potential to made a positive difference in someone else's life.
What the future looks like?
The future for me is exciting, I am still so early on in my career. I am learning and growing in confidence every day. I want to make my mark with the force and my colleagues, playing my part to make a real difference and keep making Northamptonshire safer for everyone.
I have so much respect for Northamptonshire Polices officers and my fellow volunteers, to do this job full time they really are incredible and I am proud to contribute and call them my colleagues.