In our policing feature, we hear from some of the officers on your local teams.

This week we hear from PC Fern Hockney, who is with the Met's South East Command Unit:

Why did you decide to join the Met?

I went to University and, as part of my degree, I worked with police officers who were helping male victims of abuse.

They were professional, but relatable – understanding without being patronising – and that really made an impression on me and I became interested in working for the police.

What do you think the community’s perception of the Met is?

I think a few people have bad perceptions of the Met, and that can be a little daunting.

Meet your local policing team: PC Amasjit Thind

Some might think you’re not doing enough, and there are those who might be caught up in criminal groups who can’t stand you being around because they think you’re picking on them.

However, I’ve found once people see you as a familiar face and know why you’re there and what you’re doing to help, that can make a big difference and they have a better opinion of us.

 

What are you enjoying about the Met?

I work in the Safer Neighbourhoods Team and love the team work and problem solving aspect of it.

People rely on you to help them and it’s so rewarding when people thank you for resolving their issues.

Home is so important to all of us, and I remember a situation where there was an issue in a neighbourhood and it was really distressing for the residents.

Our team looked into it properly and helped fix the problem. It was so nice to get an email from someone saying, thanks to us, their mum had had her first good night’s sleep in ages because she wasn’t worrying about it anymore.

Meet the Recruits: PC Morgan Younger

Tell us about a memorable moment for you?

It might sound silly but, for me, a stand out moment is when you come across a teenager who’s been in a difficult situation but is now back on track.

Knowing that they were having an issue and you helped them, and then seeing them out and about, saying hello to you and leading a nicer life, is lovely to see.

What would you like to achieve as an officer?

Right now, I’d really like to make an impact on anti-social behaviour, and help divert the young people involved in it away from that to something more positive.

I love working with individuals so in the future I’d want a role that is really victim-focused, and help those who’ve endured trauma put it behind them and move on.