Family in Uniform: A Mother’s Day Story of Policing and Parenthood

Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate the incredible women in our lives – the ones who love us unconditionally, support us endlessly, and inspire us daily. For one mother-daughter duo at Thames Valley Police (TVP), this bond goes beyond family; it extends into their careers, making their connection even stronger.

Meet Chrissie and Sophie, a mother and daughter whose journey into policing took an unexpected yet heart-warming turn. Sophie, a detective constable, was the first to join TVP, pursuing her interest in solving cases. But little did she know that her choice would inspire her mum, Chrissie, to take on a vital role within the force as a call handler.

On Mother’s Day, we joined Sophie for a quick visit to her mum, Chrissie, at her workplace. We caught up with them both to hear about their shared experiences, their unique bond, and what this Mother’s Day means to them.

What was it like watching your daughter join the police?

Chrissie: As a mother, I was naturally concerned about the safety aspect of the job, but Sophie was determined to join TVP, and I was happy to support her. I attended a ‘Meet the Family’ event to learn more about her training and got chatting with the Positive Action and Engagement Team. I casually mentioned that I’d love to join TVP myself but didn’t think there was a role for me. To my surprise, they told me to explore the options. That’s when I found the call handler vacancy in the Control Room. I never thought for a moment I’d be accepted, but I got an interview and was offered the job! It was a surreal and exciting moment.

What made you want to become a detective, and how did you feel when your mum decided to join the force after you?

Sophie: I was working as a forensic scientist, and I couldn’t help but read the cases we worked on and think, ‘I want to do that job.’ So, I joined via the direct Detective Constable Entry Programme (DCEP). I was so excited, but of course, my mum worried- it’s what mums do! But after attending an event, not only did she see how incredible the job is, but she was inspired to apply herself. She had mentioned years ago about wanting to be a call handler, and now, here we both are!

Do you feel like you have a special bond at work?

Sophie: You form close bonds with your teammates in this job, but there’s something different about knowing your mum is just down the hall or bumping into her at the station. It’s even stranger when I meet people at events who already know her! But it makes me so proud to hear my colleagues speak so highly of her and the work she does in Contact Management.

Chrissie: I see both sides of policing, as a civilian and through Sophie’s experiences as a detective. We understand each other’s challenges and that support is invaluable. I once had a particularly tough call, and Sophie saw that it had come through to her department. She contacted me immediately to check if I was okay. That kind of support means the world.

Can you share a moment at work when you felt especially proud of each other?

Chrissie: On my first day at TVP, Sophie messaged me to ask when I’d be arriving at the station. She met me on the stairwell and gave me a massive hug. Seeing her in uniform filled me with immense pride. It made me feel so supported on my first day in my new role.

Sophie: I can’t share just one moment. My mum makes me proud every single day. Hearing her on the airwaves, sending officers to jobs, checking in on them to make sure they’re safe, and supporting new recruits, it’s incredible. But most of all, seeing how she reassures people who call the police, often in times of crisis, makes me admire her even more.

What does it mean to have your family supporting your career in policing?

Chrissie: It means a great deal to be able to support each other in our roles. Some of the officers in the station know me as ‘Sophie’s Mum,’ which is so funny, and I love that.

Sophie: My family has always supported my career, but having my mum in the police takes that support to another level. We lift each other up on tough days and celebrate the wins together. Sharing those moments makes it all the more special.

What would you like to say to each other this Mother’s Day?

Chrissie: I am so incredibly proud of Sophie and everything she’s achieved. She makes me proud every single day. Her energy and kindness are truly special.

Sophie: Mum, I wouldn’t be the person I am today without your love and guidance. And I wouldn’t be a police officer without your unwavering support. We should celebrate our mums every day, but today is a special reminder to show how much we appreciate them. Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible mums in Thames Valley!

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This Mother’s Day, let’s celebrate the love, strength, and support of all the mums who make a difference at home and in uniform.

Thames Valley Police (TVP) is actively looking for people to be the difference they want to see in their communities.

To find out more about a policing career with TVP – including the realities of working on response, initial training, and to apply to become a Police Officer please visit our Police Officer page