I am a female police officer of colour and have been a Norfolk Police Officer now for over 22 years.

The start of that journey was filled with self- doubt, can I work a full- time busy job ( I was a temp DI at the time) and do a Masters degree? 

The end of that journey was, yes I can.

Women are often told they have imposters syndrome  – I don’t suffer from imposters syndrome as every post or position I have achieved has absolutely been done with hard work and determination. I deserve to be there but what I do internally debate is as a mother and wife what do I have to compromise on.

I left policing within my first few years (12 month career break). I didn’t feel like I belonged.  I wasn’t prepared for the vulnerability I felt as a female of colour in a uniform. This sense of vulnerability was as a result of multiple layers of discrimination that I faced on a daily basis.  I did return to policing and eventually went down the detective pathway. At this point I ignited my passion for safeguarding and protecting vulnerable people.

My dad was a nurse for 30 years and I thought I wanted to be a teacher so didn’t realise that I was perhaps predestined to end up in public service protecting the most vulnerable of society – children. 

Being a detective has been and remains a very challenging role. Its tests your resilience, mental health and commitment. It is equally rewarding.

I would not describe myself as ambitious – I do not get promoted for the rank its always for the role and that is evidenced by the fact that I have always worked in Safeguarding and Investigations. I always seek a little extra reach and promotion provides that ability to influence on a wider scale and to have that greater impact.   

I am fortunate that I have had a mentor for a number of years. I didn’t know I needed one – my mentor did and over the years this relationship has developed into one of trust and support. I often reflect and think if I had the support in the early days I probably would not have left policing.

I obtain huge reward for being able to help others   – it is important to me that as I enter the last 3^rd of my career that I bring up and support aspiring leaders behind me. 

Pippa Hinds

Temporary D/Superintendent