Meet PC Daniel Leach

Meet PC Daniel Leach - he joined Essex police training college in the September of 2019 and by February 2020 was serving in the local community. Having completed his classroom training he joined more experienced co-workers to start is career and continues to grow.  

We spoke to him about his work and why he chose to build his career serving the communities of Essex. 

Can you tell us about your current role and any other roles you’ve held? 

My current role is a response officer on Loughton local policing team (LPT), covering the Epping Forest area responding to 999 calls as they come into us from the Force Control Room.

We are often the first officers on scene which could be anything from missing persons and shoplifting to domestic violence and assault.

LPT teams are sometimes referred to as the backbone of Essex police. Nearly every investigation will start with or involve LPT in some way.

It's not just responding to 999 calls; we carry out or own investigations. In my role I really do get to do everything, I have been doing it for 3 years now, and I can't see that changing.

When and why did you join the police? 

I joined the police to make a difference in people's lives and the community, in the same way that police made a difference in my life when I was younger. I saw first-hand how the police can come into a situation that is difficult and complex and help everyone involved.

I wanted a job that could make a difference and keep people safe. I can thank my college tutor for encouraging me into the police; when I was younger, I wasn’t sure what to do with my life and things had been and were still difficult for me. I knew I wanted something more than 9 to 5 work and hearing about his experiences cemented the idea in my head.

What is the most rewarding part of the job or the part you enjoy the most? 

There are so many things to choose from but if I was to pick one, it's when I have been to an incident and I can see from the eyes of the victim, witness members or public present that I have fixed something for them. Knowing you have made that difference.

As for the most enjoyable part it has to be blue light runs.

How has being a police officer changed your life? 

Essex police helped me get a formal diagnosis for dyslexia which is great and the support I have had is brilliant. The confidence I gained from this role, in dealing with people, the ability to talk to everyone and understand their point of view.

Also, it can’t be forgotten how each night when I go home from shift, I know I have made a difference and have done something to improve the lives of people even if only for a short time in a small way.

Have you gained any other skills or qualifications that have helped you in your role? 

I have a diploma in policing and my training has given me all the skills I needed to do my job. I am certified as a tutor giving me the responsibility to help support new officers in their role.

Can you offer any advice for new recruits? 

Listen! And don’t be afraid to ask questions.

The training staff are a great resource and from my experience every officer on shift is always willing to help you learn.

If you are thinking about joining the police but are not sure if your suitable or if it’s right for you, I can only encourage you to try out and apply. Everyone has skills that they can use which helps to make an effective police officer.

If you don’t think you are academic don’t worry, yes there is paperwork and a lot to learn but if I can do it anyone can. There is always support and guidance and believe me the team will very quickly help you play to your strengths.

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

If you share our values and want to protect and serve our communities, why not join us?

If you think you could protect and serve the people of Essex, either as a police officer, member of staff or volunteer, why not see if you fit the bill?

Find out more by visiting our careers page.