Meet PC Abhilasha Bajwa

Meet PC Abhilasha Bajwa

Age at joining: 21

Length of Service: 2.5 years

Why did you want to become a Police Officer?

I wanted to do something meaningful with my life, something with purpose that I could look back on in years to come with pride that I made a positive difference to people’s lives. A legacy to tell my grandchildren about with pride.

Why difference makes a difference in policing?

In the past when I have attended certain jobs, I have had some victims, or even suspects, respond positively to me because they feel as though I truly understand them and can relate to them on a particular level. This may be due to me being a woman or being Asian or because I am younger in age, these factors can really matter to the public whether you realise it or not. In these instances you can truly achieve the best outcome, for example a victim may be more likely to support a case or a suspect may become more relaxed in an environment where they feel more understood.

The diversity of police officers is important for the public to have trust in the police and for us to provide the best service possible.  We need to truly represent the communities we serve.

As a previous member of TVP’s Positive Action and Engagement Team (PAET), I hope to ensure that no matter what your background or who you are, you have an equal chance of succeeding and that no factors hold anyone back within policing.

What advice or encouragement would you give to someone apprehensive about joining?

It is important to remember that absolutely everyone has something valuable to bring to policing. Whether it be an in depth understanding about a particular culture or ethnicity, difference in age or gender, variety in experience before policing, maybe even a personal life experience which has shaped how you think – it is all valued in the world of policing. This diversity is so important! If you are someone who has strong, positive morals and values, and who believes in doing the right thing, then the police may well be the perfect job for you.

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Thames Valley Police (TVP) is actively looking for people wanting 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 register your interest to become a Police Officer please visit our Police Officer page.