Meet one of Loughton’s newest officers

Since the age of 17, PC Sarah Scully wanted to be a police officer. Now, at age 32, Sarah has achieved her goal to join the thousands of officers protecting and serving the people of Essex. PC Scully, who will be based in Loughton, said:

“This is a huge deal to me. When I was younger, I was in public services and, for whatever reason, becoming a police officer didn’t happen and that was meant to be. Now, years later, it’s so important that I’ve been able to achieve it. I’m pretty impressed with myself."

PC Scully decided to take the leap to become a police officer thanks to her best friend.

“My best friend works in the Metropolitan Police Service and she inspired me to apply to become a police officer. She told me I just need to take the leap and do it. When it comes to exams and learning about the different powers and offences, she’s been so helpful.
“It can sometimes be overwhelming, so it’s reassuring to have someone by your side that’s been through it as well.
“The rest of my class have also been supportive too and we now have a great friendship with everyone. My partner has also been a great support throughout my journey.”

The steps to becoming a qualified police officer can be challenging, but there is always help and support at Essex Police. PC Scully, who left college at 19, said the exams have been the most challenging. She went onto say:

“I hadn’t done any type of formal exam since leaving college. That’s been the biggest challenge for me because it’s been in back-to-school learning mode.
“But we’ve had a really good mix of tutors at the college. They been so good at helping us and making sure we all know what we’re talking about and what we’re doing.
“One of our teachers in particular, staff Elgie, has been so good to us, literally amazing and helpful. She has shared so many good life experience and stories with us, as have all the tutors here.
“And, as a class, we’ve had such a tight friendship and we’ve even had revision nights. If you’re not sure, there’s always someone there to help you get through it.
“Having three former Special Constables in our class has also helped. Knowing they went through working as a Special and they still want to come back and be an officer and are excited for the process reassures me that it’s an amazing job.”

As Charity Liaison Lead in her class, PC Scully is really proud of what they achieved.

“We all came together and raised £2,000 for the Trussell Trust food bank in Chelmsford. We cycled the length of John O’Groats to Lands End using borrowed bikes from local gyms.”

Before joining Essex Police, PC Scully was a general manager at a wedding venue, which meant she was able to bring many transferable skills with her when joining the force.

“I’ve been in hospitality since I was 16. I remember there would be arguments between wedding guests and I had to calm them down. After, I’d write a report of what had happened. With that experience, as well as being able to talk to people and defuse the situation really made me think I could join the police.
“If you’re considering joining, just go for it. It’s a great feeling to be able to help people.
“The life experience that I've had now has just been invaluable really.”

PC Scully also has a passion for music. She said:

“I used to DJ part time before joining the police. It actually started as a hobby and I absolutely love my music, especially disco and soulful house. I enjoy collecting vinyls and playing music on my decks at home when I have the time.”

PC Scully already has plans for her future in policing and is adamant to support victims of domestic abuse and secure justice.

“When I first did my interview at the recruitment stage, they asked me what sort of area I wanted to go into. At first, before even knowing half the areas as there is so many areas we can work in, I said about domestic violence victims and working as part of the Domestic Abuse Investigation Team.
“I’m really excited for the attachment I’m going to be doing with the team. It’s one thing I really wanted to be a part of, especially helping victims and being able to recognise all the signs that have led to that point. Whether it’s just a small incident at first and you’re able to note that crime down and build a case, it all helps to make a difference to that person’s life.
“I’d like to work my way up to become a detective. We had an input recently from the detective pathway, which was so insightful, so that’s something I'm still hoping for on my five-year plan.”

At Essex Police, we value difference, and know that we’re strongest when we all work together.

Our officers have different life experiences, different skills and represent communities from across our county.

We’re here for you and your loved ones in times of emergency, and we’re always looking for new people to join us.

If you think you could protect and serve the people of Essex, why not see if you fit the bill?