A police officer who wrote an emotional open letter to the public about the ‘human side’ of her profession, said she has been ‘humbled’ by people’s reactions to it all over the world.
The woman who does not wish to be named, lived in Chester for a decade until recently, has worked in the force for 26 years.
Her heartfelt letter which referred to the recent murder of PC Dave Phillips in Wallasey and female colleagues PsC Fiona Bone and Nicola Hughes on duty in Manchester in 2012, touched the hearts of millions after it went viral following a posting on the One Police Facebook page.
In it she spoke of the job she ‘loved’ and how affected she was by the tragedy she often experiences. She asks the public to remember officers are still regular people with their own lives and feelings and referenced the challenges of increasing job cuts.
Related: Cheshire police officer's heartfelt open letter to public goes viral
She was stunned by the positive reaction to her letter describing the UK as having ‘the best police service in the world’.
In an email to the Chronicle she said:
“I wrote this letter to show the human side of police officers, following the news coverage of PC Dave Phillips’ young daughters’ visiting the site of his death. These are all very personal experiences.
“I have been humbled by the public outpouring of support shown since the letter was posted. I know my colleagues across the world are reassured by the positive responses.
“It has been shared in Australia, New Zealand, America and Hong Kong, so it resonates with police officers internationally. It has also been supported by all members of public sector organisations including NHS staff, teachers and prison officers.
“Policing is a job I love doing, and I am proud to serve the public. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who has taken the time to read the letter and share their thoughts. “
"Thank You
"Yours sincerely.
"A cop."
Have you read the letter? What do you think of the reaction? Let us know in the comments below
