Meet Ellie May – Fingerprint Bureau Volunteer

I volunteer with Thames Valley Police as part of the Forensics Fingerprint Bureau. My role involves assisting with the weekly fingerprint clinic at HQ South, a service essential for individuals requiring their fingerprints for new employment, particularly those who have recently moved to or returned to the UK.

My responsibilities include welcoming attendees, verifying their identification, and ensuring all necessary information is correctly recorded on the official forms. I then support the fingerprint technician who guides the individual through the process of taking their prints. The entire appointment is remarkably efficient, typically lasting around 15 minutes, and it is rewarding to see how pleased people are with the streamlined service.

This volunteering experience has been incredibly insightful. It has provided a unique opportunity to understand the behind-the-scenes operations of a fingerprint bureau – a vital, yet lesser-known aspect of police work. Engaging with people from diverse backgrounds and learning about their journeys to the UK has been a truly eye-opening part of the role.

Furthermore, interacting with police employees from various departments has given me a holistic appreciation for the collaborative effort involved in policing. This role has been a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a key public service and gain a deeper understanding of the wide-ranging work carried out by the Thames Valley Police.

Visit our vacancies portal to explore volunteering opportunities with Thames Valley Police