Aberdeenshire Cop Named 'Police Officer Of The Year'
Two officers from Aberdeenshire and Moray Division have been recognised for their performance and dedication by the SWDF (Scottish Women's Development Forum).
Two officers from Aberdeenshire and Moray Division have been recognised for their performance and dedication by the SWDF (Scottish Women's Development Forum).
Superintendent Kate Stephen was presented with the Leadership Award, while Sergeant Pamela Gordon was announced as the 'Police Officer of the Year'
The SWDF was established in 2003 and works with Police Scotland to increase the representation of women officers and staff at all levels throughout the Force. Their annual awards recognise the contributions and achievements of staff within Police Scotland and the Scottish Police Authority.
Superintendent Kate Stephen joined the Police in 2000 and moved to her role as Superintendent responsible for operations in Aberdeenshire and Moray in November 2014. In addition to his busy and varied role, she regularly volunteers to chair the National Police Promotion Process (NPPP) and has led the development of the Police Scotland Youth Volunteers scheme (PSYV).
Superintendent Stephen was recognised for her natural leadership style and her willingness to 'go the extra mile' in each aspect of her role. She said: "I am absolutely delighted to have been nominated for and presented with this award. I have always taken great satisfaction in helping others to succeed in the organisation, there is so much talent and potential out there and in my experience, some individuals need a bit of encouragement to actually see what they are capable of, embrace it and go for it."
Sergeant Pamela Gordon has been the Divisional Training Sergeant for Aberdeenshire and Moray for the past three years, responsible for overseeing the progress of approximately 90 probationary Constables and 90 Special Constables at any given time. As the leader of a team of six, she has gone beyond the typical demands of her role with an unprecedented level of support for new officers arriving in the North East.
Sergeant Gordon has been praised for her personal touch and a number of initiatives she's brought in to make life easier for new probationers. She said: "I am very honoured to be given this award and accept it not only for myself but on behalf of my team, who I'm privileged to work with. I would like to thank the judges for their kind words and will continue to work hard to make a difference for new officers coming to Aberdeenshire and Moray."
Chief Superintendent Campbell Thomson, Divisional Commander for Aberdeenshire and Moray, said: "I would like to extend my congratulations to both Kate and Pamela for receiving these awards. Police Scotland strives to make a difference to our communities and it is important that we celebrate the hard work and achievements of all of our officers. Kate and Pamela are exemplary assets to the Division and indeed the Force. Their commitment and dedication is second to none and recognition well deserved."