Expect the unexpected in a policing career!

There’s no such thing as a typical shift for Humberside police officers, who know to expect the unexpected, and the unpredictability that greets them at the start of each shift.

Applications are now open to join them as a police officer, to give you an idea of what you’d be looking forward to, they spoke to two of their Bridlington officers to get a real insight into the work they are challenged with, and how it might affect them at the end of each day.

What’s it like to work as a police officer?

You never know what each day is going to bring. Physically and mentally, it can be tiring at times, and there are lots of days where you don’t have time to stop and take a breath. It can be quite draining, but at the same time, very rewarding.

How would you describe a typical day?

A common shift for them involves a lot of travelling. They’re going to and from different places, and because of the large geographical area of the East Riding, they cover a lot of ground. 

For example, one day they went down to Easington, then from there they went to Hull Royal, and back to Bridlington. You’re looking at around a 100-mile round-trip just for a single job. That’s a typical distance that they can cover over any shift – they’ve nearly done that today already! 

You’re always listening to your radio as well, even subconsciously. Sometimes, you go home, and you think you can still hear it in your ear, especially after listening to it for 12 hours every day! They’re always monitoring it to see what everyone else is doing, and to be aware in case they need any assistance.

One morning they can be out on arrest attempts for a wanted person, then into the afternoon they can be assisting our colleagues with another arrest. 

They might have to stay behind even after their shift sometimes to support victims and gather evidence in the form of witness and victim statements, as well as CCTV to give us the best possible chance at prosecution.

What’s it like policing by the seaside?

Being so close to the seaside, it’s not like working anywhere else – I like going past the beach. It obviously brings its own challenges, but it is good.

The tourists they get throughout the summer pretty much double the population. however, even though they have a small team at the seaside resort, they’re a close-knit team and make it work.

Think this sounds like something you would like to get involved in? Apply today.