PC Michael Smith
PC Michael Smith
Born in Easington, County Durham
Aged 36 years
Previously worked as a team leader for Nissan for nearly 15 years Joined Durham Constabulary in November 2005
"Throughout the training, I've found both fellow officers and trainers there to help, encourage and offer their support. Training includes practical exercises on and off the training site, classroom based learning and the best part, out with your PDO officer dealing with real life incidents."
My Role
I am designated as a core officer, so my duties can involve just about anything. Dealing with burglaries, thefts, sudden deaths, traffic related incidents and of course beat patrol, are just a small part of my responsibilities. You can experience all kinds of situations when on duty so you have to be prepared.
Background
I had worked at Nissan in Sunderland for nearly 15 years. I started in the tools in the bodyshop at first and was eventually promoted to team leader in 1998 before joining the police in November 2005. Moving from a manual job in the manufacturing industry to a more community based vocation has been a life changing decision. Having been born and lived in County Durham all my life I felt that Durham Constabulary was the natural choice.
Why I joined the Police Service
I have always wanted to join the police. There are a lot of opportunities for you to develop your skills and to work in all sorts of challenging areas. There is also a lot of variation in the role, you never know what is going to happen next, which is what I enjoy about the police service.
New skills gained
I have learned many new skills throughout my training, personal safety, first aid, communication skills and many others. There are plenty of opportunities for you to learn and develop these skills and at the end of your training you receive an NVQ level 3 and 4 in policing. "Can't be bad!"
The best thing about my job
I have to say that helping the public has got to be the most rewarding thing. Just patrolling the streets giving reassurance can have a positive effect. People coming up to you and chatting about anything and everything is great. It makes you feel that you are doing something worthwhile.
