Father and Daughter: Bonds Beyond the Badge

What’s it like when your daughter chooses the same career as you? For Jim, who served as a police officer for over 30 years and now works as a museum curator for the force, seeing his daughter Victoria become a police officer has been a proud and special moment. They share a strong bond, not just as family, but as part of the policing world. This is their story about following in each other’s footsteps, supporting one another, and making a difference together.

Jim, what was it like watching your daughter join the police?

Overwhelmingly proud. Victoria’s only ever known me as a police officer. I wouldn’t say I directly influenced her choice, but she’s always had a strong interest in criminology, law, and public service. Both my daughters are inspirational. Harriet is a neonatal intensive care nurse, and I always knew they’d devote themselves to helping others. It’s a bit cheesy, but I couldn’t be more proud. I guess all fathers say that!

Victoria, what made you want to become a police officer? Did your father inspire you?

Seeing the opportunities my dad had and how much he loved the job definitely inspired me. One year at Reading Festival, I went along with him to gain experience for my university application. Seeing investigation teams, custody, patrols, and public engagement made it clear that day, I told him I wanted to be a police officer. I haven’t looked back since.

Victoria’s graduation 2023

Do you feel a special bond at work?

Jim: I think all Fathers have a special bond with their daughters, but being part of the policing family does lend itself to shared experiences and a language that is often impenetrable to others, especially at family gatherings. As we have a distinctive surname, at the start of her career, people would ask Victoria if she was related to me. Now, I’m pleased to say, they ask me if I’m related to Victoria! I think that’s brilliant.

Victoria: We had different roles throughout the years, so we’ve never worked directly together, but I do feel that bond. Every week, someone asks if we’re related and shares a story about working with Dad. Some are funny, some heartfelt, always lovely. It makes me proud and connected to him at work.

Have you given each other work advice? Who listens more?

Victoria: My dad is the first person I turn to for advice- he helped with my application, becoming a detective, promotion… everything. He’s always there when something’s tricky. He’s a great listener, but not shy about sharing his opinion! If you ask the family, they’d say I listen more!

Jim:  Victoria helped me many times with up-to-date advice and processes. I retired after 31 years and did my best to stay current, but we can all learn from the experience of bright, enthusiastic young officers. After passing her PIP2, Victoria moved into the Child Abuse Investigation Unit (CAIU)—an area I never worked in, so her insights have been invaluable. While many long-serving officers have to seek out frontline perspectives, I was lucky to have them on hand. Now she’s an Incident Crime and Response (ICR) Sergeant, we still chat about leadership, and I’ve no doubt I’ll keep learning. As for who listens more? I try!

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

Jim: I’m proud every day, but some moments stand out. Starting on an ICR team as a student officer is tough; she handled it brilliantly and made lasting friendships. Passing her PIP2 and joining CAIU, where the work truly saves lives, was another. Most recently, passing her sergeant’s board and starting as ICR skipper in Reading. I remember starting in Cowley in 2001- it’s a ‘take a breath and get on with it’ moment. I’m so proud she stepped into that room.

Victoria: My dad’s career has so many highlights- his role in royal events, as Silver Commander at the Queen’s and Prince Philip’s funerals, and the Sussex wedding. But my proudest moment was seeing him receive the King’s Police Medal at Windsor Castle. It recognised his hard work and dedication, and I’ve never been more proud.

(Left to right) Victoria, Jim, and Harriet at the King’s Police Medal Ceremony

What does family support mean in policing?

Jim: Family is everything. We couldn’t do it without them. We miss key moments, celebrations, and plans change last minute. Our family’s patience and support, especially during tough times, mean everything. Victoria and I are lucky to have that.

Victoria: We both feel lucky. Our family makes sacrifices- unsociable hours, missed occasions, late finishes, and still shows support and understanding. Having my dad in policing has meant incredible support. Whether it’s practical advice or reassurance, he’s always there.

What’s one lesson you’ve learnt from each other?

Jim: Victoria’s ability to handle pressure. She’s calm in a crisis, hardworking, and always puts the vulnerable first- even if it means working late. She never complains. She’s exactly what you want in a detective.

Victoria: One lesson that’s stuck with me- sometimes, even when you’ve done everything right, bad things still happen. That mindset helps me focus on what I can do: do the right thing and give my best. That’s what matters.

How are you spending Father’s Day this year?

Jim: We’re big Formula 1 fans and often watch races together, if shifts allow! Luckily, Victoria, Harriet, their partners, and my wife Catherine are all off, so we’ll watch the Canadian Grand Prix with Canadian-themed food and drinks. Poutine, anyone?

Victoria: I support Red Bull, Dad’s for Aston Martin! My parents are the best hosts and love any excuse for a family get-together.

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Jim and Victoria’s story shows how strong family support can make all the difference in a demanding job like policing. Their shared journey is full of pride, teamwork, and real impact.

Inspired by their story? Consider joining TVP. For fathers wanting to start a policing legacy for their children, now is the perfect time to join us and make a difference together.

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