Police officers set to take up duties after words of welcome from new Chief Constable

SIXTY-eight new officers have taken their oaths and are set to serve in local communities across the county.

In front of their friends and family, the Police, Fire, Crime Commissioner for Essex Roger Hirst, His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant Jennifer Tolhurst and Deputy Lieutenant Colonel Ed Rankin and the High Sheriff Susannah Dutton, the new officers passed out at a ceremony at Essex Police HQ in Chelmsford.

It was Chief Constable Rachel Nolan's first such event since becoming Essex Police's Chief.

Addressing the new officers she said: "Today is a day of celebration, achievement and pride. Policing is not simply a job. It is public service at its very best.

"You will be there when people are frightened, vulnerable or experiencing the worst day of their lives. You will comfort victims, safeguard those at risk and help people when they have nowhere else to turn.

Chief Constable Rachel Nolan

"There will be difficult days ahead. But there will also be moments when you know you have genuinely changed someone's life.

"And there are few careers that offer that privilege. As you begin your service, there are three words I ask you to remember:

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"Prevention. Protection. Professionalism.

"Prevent harm. The greatest success in policing is often the incident that never happens. Work with colleagues, communities and partners to solve problems early and make Essex safer for everyone.

"Protect the public. Be relentless in pursuing those who cause harm. Stand up for victims. Protect the vulnerable. Never lose sight of the fact that behind every crime report is a real person who needs your help.

"And be professional. The trust and confidence of the public is earned every day – it's hard won and quickly lost. Let the Code of Ethics guide your decisions. Show courage when something needs challenging, and always treat people as you'd hope a member of your family would be treated in the same situation.

"Do the right thing, in the right way, for the right reasons. Essex is a remarkable county to police.

"From bustling towns and cities to rural villages and coastal communities, the challenges are diverse, but so are the opportunities to make a difference.

"What makes Essex special is its people.

"Our communities care deeply about where they live and rightly expect a police service they can trust. Society is changing quickly, along with legislation and expectations of policing. But if we are impartial and fair we can deal with pretty much anything.

"Every day, officers and staff across this force work tirelessly to keep people safe, tackle crime, protect the vulnerable and support communities through difficult times.

"We are a strong force. We're not very well funded but we continue to punch above our weight in delivering good outcomes for the public.

"Today, you become part of that legacy.

"You inherit not only the proud history of Essex Police, but also responsibility for its future. From my own passing out parade, I remember the excitement, the nerves and the immense sense of pride. Standing here today, I hope you feel exactly the same.

"I am proud to be your Chief Constable. I am proud of Essex Police. And today, I am incredibly proud of every one of you. Congratulations, good luck, and welcome to the Essex Police family."

Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said: "It's a privilege to welcome 68 new officers to Essex Police. They are embarking on a rewarding career with great opportunities to develop and progress at every stage of their policing journey. A lot is asked of officers, and the role is demanding, but those who have passed out today have proven they have the skills and talent to succeed in policing.

"Family members are an important part of any passing out parade. It is a special moment for them to learn more about what their loved ones have achieved after completing an intensive training and assessment process. I am glad those family members at today's parade got to enjoy the occasion as their support, at good and bad times, will be a constant source of strength.

"This is the first time that Rachel Nolan has attended a passing out parade as Chief Constable of Essex Police. Under her new leadership, these officers will be able to play a crucial role maintaining a relentless focus on tackling anti-social behaviour and crime.

"Policing is in the middle of a period of significant reform. These new officers will likely see in a wave of change, but their primary responsibility to keep the public safe will always remain their guiding focus. I wish them every success – the future of policing in Essex will be built on their commitment, drive and integrity."