Police Constable Annabel Courtnell

In a bustling Stansted Airport, where thousands of passengers pass through each day, Armed Response Vehicle Officer (ARVO) PC Annabel Courtnell and her team work tirelessly to ensure the safety of all. As one of the highly trained firearms officers in Essex Police, she plays a vital role in keeping the public safe from potential threats, responding to incidents, and engaging with people from all walks of life.

It was a childhood moment that first inspired her path into policing, proving that representation matters:

“I remember visiting Stansted Airport when I was about 10 years old and saw a female firearms officer patrolling. She was small in stature, but she looked so confident. I thought she was the coolest person I had ever seen. It was then that I decided that I wanted to be her one day.”

Challenges and triumphs

Being an ARVO comes with a lot of responsibility. Particularly given the scrutiny that firearms officers face.

“We are held to the highest standard, and our decision-making can mean life or death. We receive intensive training every ten weeks to ensure we are always prepared.”

One of the challenges she has faced is the physical demands of the role, particularly as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field. But she is now working with weapons training teams to ensure that future female officers have properly fitting gear and are supported in their roles.

“There were times when I was told that I wouldn’t be able to manage because of my size or strength. Even getting the right equipment was a struggle. I had to wear kit that was three sizes too big because it was the smallest available.
"But I refused to let that stop me.
“It’s about creating an environment where women feel valued and equipped to succeed."

The rewarding side of policing

For Annie, the most rewarding aspect of her job is knowing that she makes a difference. She recalls a particularly impactful case where she helped a victim of domestic abuse find safety:

"She had no idea of the extent of the crime she was a victim of. After hours of "talking, I helped secure a safe place for her and her child.
Later, she came back to thank me and told me that our interaction had inspired her to become a police officer. That was a truly humbling moment.
“We meet people at some of the most difficult moments in their lives. Whether it’s rescuing someone from a dangerous situation, preventing harm, or even just reassuring a nervous child in the airport, those moments stay with you."

Celebrating women in policing

Events like International Women’s Day are a perfect opportunity to honour and celebrate the remarkable achievements of women in policing. But Annie feels strongly about this all year round, especially considering her current role.

Anne believes that while Essex Police continues to make strides in supporting female officers, there is still progress to be made.

“It’s not about discrediting the work of men, but about recognising the extra barriers women have had to overcome.
"Women in policing, especially in specialist roles like firearms, have come a long way. It’s important to highlight those achievements to inspire future generations.
“Women are now regularly consulted about how to improve conditions, but we need more female voices in key decision-making meetings.
"I want to see more women encouraged to take on these roles, knowing they will be supported every step of the way.”

Next ambitions

As for the future, PC Annie Courtnell has big ambitions.

“I want to continue developing my firearms expertise and eventually move to the Force Support Unit as a county-wide resource. Beyond that, I have my sights set on promotion and, one day, becoming part of the Chief Officer Group.”

And her advice to women considering a career in policing?

“Go for it. Don’t let anyone tell you that you’re not strong enough, not capable enough, or not suited for the job. If you have the determination, you can achieve anything.”

At Essex Police, we value difference. We know we’re strongest when we work together. And we want a workforce that represents our communities. 

If you share our values and want to help people, keep people safe and catch criminals, then join us as a police officer, member of staff, special constable or volunteer.

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