TWO outstanding officers were recognized for their contribution to policing Sussex by the Queen.
Her Majesty today named two officers from Sussex to the list of anniversary honors.
These were Chief Detective Superintendent Steve Rayland, who received the Queen’s Police Medal (QPM) and Inspector Chris Varrall, who received the MBE.
Chief Superintendent Rayland worked as the force leader on protecting the public and assisting victims of domestic violence.
He reviewed and changed policies on how officers handle calls to contained home situations during the Covid-19 pandemic, and understood how this can impact a victim’s ability to come forward and report abuse.
Sussex Police said they have launched a team of officers trained to use better technology to help protect victims.
He also ensured that officers were specifically tasked with attending to incidents of domestic violence.
The policies created by Chief Superintendent Rayland have since been taken over by other forces across the country.
The Inspector Chris Varrall’s Award recognizes his exceptional initiative and personal commitment to creating and launching two local safeguard projects while he was a sergeant in East Sussex.
He launched Operation Disovery to identify victims of human trafficking and modern slavery, helping hundreds of vulnerable victims
It has been recognized nationally by the government as a good practice, and thanks to its initiative, victims have been protected, awareness has been raised and offenders have been brought to justice.
Inspector Varrall has also created programs to tackle anti-social youth, bringing together police, education, charities and public sector programs to prevent youth behavior from getting to the point of getting worse. a criminal record.
More than 900 young people have signed up for the program and 769 have been officially referred.
Following the announcement of their awards, Chief Superintendent Rayland said, “I am delighted and honored to have been nominated for this award.
“Policing is built on teamwork and it’s a privilege to work with police officers and employees who are truly dedicated and passionate about protecting vulnerable people.
“The pandemic has created significant challenges for policing domestic violence and changing our response to ensure we can support those in need was vital. I am proud of what Sussex Police do in supporting and protecting victims and investigating domestic violence. ”
Chief Superintendent Steve Rayland (left) and Inspector Chris Varrall (right)
Inspector Varrall said: “I was shocked and astonished when I received notification from the Cabinet Office that I had received this award.
“In working on the design and development of Reboot and Discovery, we have taken a full partnership approach and I will always be grateful for the exceptional people who make up both teams, turning people away from the dangers and risks they face. .
“This battle does not end there and must continue, because exploitation exists all around us. I cannot thank Sussex Police and Sussex PCC Katy Bourne enough for supporting these two initiatives. ”
Police Chief Jo Shiner said: “On behalf of everyone in Sussex Police, I congratulate both Steve and Chris.
“Tackling domestic violence, modern slavery and the vulnerability of young people are priorities for the force, and we are delighted that our two colleagues’ innovative and committed approach to developing new ways of protecting the public has been so publicly and nationally recognized.
“This recognition is also a tribute to the teamwork and enthusiasm of equally dedicated officers and employees who work with them across the force.
Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said: “I am proud that two Sussex Police officers have been recognized on the Queen’s Honor Roll for their innovative contributions to the safety of some of our most vulnerable.
Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne and Police Chief Jo Shiner
“Steve spearheaded the force’s response to domestic violence during the pandemic, which received nationwide acclaim and helped so many who might otherwise have slipped through the safety net.
“The early intervention program, Reboot, was funded and managed by my office for three years. During this time, I have seen firsthand Chris’ passion for improving the lives of young people.
“I would like to thank them both for their exceptional service and congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition. ”
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Source: www.theargus.co.uk
This notice was published: 2021-06-12 13:41:16
