How Katheryn Found Her Place in the Control Room

Joining Thames Valley Police in August 2024 marked the start of a transformative journey for Katheryn. Beginning as a 999/101 call-handling apprentice, she has progressed through intensive training and hands-on mentoring. She now proudly holds a distinction, along with the opportunity to support new starters entering the control room.

How long have you been with Thames Valley Police, and how has your journey unfolded?

I have now been with Thames Valley Police since August 2024, when I started my journey with the 999/101 call handling apprenticeship. My journey involved completing 5 weeks of classroom-based training, and once that was complete,d I was based at my station and given a tutor where I had one-to-one support from an experienced call handler. I have since completed my tutor course, meaning I will now be supporting new starters within the call centre and have also completed my apprenticeship, achieving a distinction.

What inspired you to pursue an apprenticeship with TVP?

I have always wanted to work within the police, and the idea of earning a qualification was very desirable to me. I had previously wanted to work as a police officer, but due to having a young family at home, this was not something I could commit to at the time. When I saw that TVP were hiring for call handlers, I knew this would be a stepping stone into working for the police and possibly branching into this role in the future.

How has your mentor or support system contributed to your professional growth?

Throughout my apprenticeship journey, the team have been very supportive and always happy to help with any questions. You have regular one-to-one meetings with the apprenticeship team to help you achieve your qualification.
Throughout the role, there are many different people to support you, that would be through your tutor after your initial training, your peers who are always happy to help as they have likely taken a similar call to yourself, and many supervisors working throughout the call centre who are more than happy to help with any questions.

What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship at TVP?

If you are interested in a career in policing and want to gain a qualification, all whilst being supported and helping those in need, then this should be a role you should consider. You may think that you might not have the right skills or experience, but as long as you want to help those in need and can remain calm, you are likely to be suited to this role.
I applied for this role after years of hospitality and management roles, although I did not have any experience within policing, I knew that the skills I gained in hospitality through customer service, and my problem-solving in my management role, that these would be suited to call handling.
Being a call handler can be challenging, but the job is very rewarding and should be a role you consider if you are looking for a fast-paced, exciting and rewarding career.

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If you’re interested in finding out more about becoming a 999/101 Call Handler, visit our Contact Management page.