Community Policing Awards

Outstanding Customer Service

PCSO Deborah Charman being presented with her award by Councillor Alan Ham of Avon and Somerset Police Authority.

The 2009 award was won by PCSO Deborah Charman (North Somerset) who is based at Portishead.

I am absolutely stunned and overwhelmed. I love the job and love helping people so want to say a big thank you to anyone who took the trouble to nominate me.

PCSO Deborah Charman

One of the nominations came from a woman whose mother had recently passed away. She wanted to express her thanks to PCSO Charman, who had organised a special evening for more than 200 senior citizens in Portishead. Her mother never forgot the occasion and "talked about it for weeks."

PCSO Charman said: "Those words were so beautiful. I definitely get back what I put into this job. It's so rewarding to feel that you really make a difference. People are so grateful when you make the extra effort and I feel very humbled."

The 2009 nominees were:

Wendy Hull - Bristol
Diana Clarke - South Gloucestershire
Ian Harris - B&NES
Rebecca Hocken - Somerset East
Stephen Linton - Somerset West
Deborah Charman - North Somerset

About the award

Giving a high quality professional service instils confidence in our communities and encourages involvement and engagement.

The winner will be a police officer or member of police staff who has consistently provided the highest levels of professionalism and customer care in their dealings with the public.

Award Criteria for panel short listing:

This member of staff clearly demonstrates and promotes the force’s Quality of Service standards and commitments.
The staff member clearly demonstrates high levels of customer care and service.
They give the customer a professional and positive impression of themselves and the organisation, which regularly exceeds public expectations.
Where appropriate they monitor and solve customer service problems and issues.
They promote an environment of continuous improvement and learning.
Evidence of commendations or letters of appreciation can be submitted if applicable.

Special Recognition BT Award

This year there was a Special Recognition BT Award for Diana Clarke (South Gloucestershire) who is based at Staple Hill Enquiry Office.

I'm absolutely thrilled to bits. I've worked at Staple Hill for 15 years and can't imagine doing anything else. The work is very varied and I just enjoy trying to help people.

"I try to treat everyone with dignity and respect, whatever the reason they find themselves in a police station. I really care and want to put people at ease and do my best for them. Thank you for this award – it means so much.

Diana Clarke