Introducing Special Sergeant Katie Smith

Name: Katie Smith

Rank: Special Sergeant

Where do you work as a Special Constable?: I am based at Ashby Neighbourhood Policing Team, Southbank

When did you join as a Special Constable?: I joined in September 2008

What do you do for a living outside the Special Constabulary?: In my full time job I am a Detention Officer based at Birchin Way custody suite. I am also married and mummy to a little girl. 

Why did you join as a Special Constable?: I joined as a Special at 19 with dreams of being a full time police officer. I was very young with little life experience and saw it as a way to gain the experience and confidence to be a police officer. The more I learnt and the more I grew within the specials I discovered a fantastic team of people, with such a dedication and passion for policing. We are like a big family, very supportive of each other on and off duty.

What types of duty you typically get involved in?: When I am not managing the team at Ashby, I am solely based in neighbourhood policing. I work primarily with other neighbourhood specials targeting the local hotspot areas. Providing high visibility patrols as well as assisting response with high priority incidents. It’s such a varied job, never knowing what each shift will bring and it is this variety that has meant I am still a special 12 years later.

What are your future ambitions as a member of the Special Constabulary?: My ambition in the specials is to continue working front line, helping other specials and members of the public.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of joining?: My advice to somebody joining would be to go for it! It’s such a unique experience that nothing else can compare to. The sense of pride and achievement after a busy shift doesn’t compare to anything else.