From the Royal Navy to Policing: Debbie’s Story
For many Service-leavers, the move from Military life to a civilian career can feel daunting. For Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary Police Constable Debbie Neesham, the transition from the Royal Navy to policing was a natural continuation of a life dedicated to public service.
In 2001, at just 16 years old, Debbie left Newcastle and travelled to Plymouth to begin her Royal Navy career. “I had no real idea what I was letting myself in for, but the next six years turned out to be some of the best of my life.” During her service, she travelled extensively, deployed around the world, and formed lifelong friendships, developing the resilience, teamwork and adaptability that would later support her policing career.
Transitioning to policing
As her Military service came to an end, Debbie attended a Career Transition Partnership (CTP) course focused on careers in policing. There, she discovered a range of opportunities within Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary and was particularly drawn to the role of Police Community Support Officer (PCSO).
In 2007, Debbie joined the Constabulary as a PCSO. Over the next seven years, she worked closely with local communities, supported frontline officers and gained invaluable insight into policing. The experience confirmed she had found the right career path.
Building frontline experience
In 2013, Debbie became a Police Constable and joined a Response and Patrol team. Over five years, she attended incidents across Hampshire, developing a wide range of frontline policing skills. Keen to broaden her experience, she moved into an investigations department, where she interviewed prisoners, gathered evidence and prepared case files for court. After two years, Debbie returned to a more community-focused role within Neighbourhood Policing, spending a further five years building partnerships and helping solve local issues.
Supporting the next generation
Today, Debbie works within the Constabulary’s Recruitment Team, helping attract and support the next generation of police officers and staff. “It’s incredibly rewarding helping to shape the future of policing and supporting people who are considering joining the organisation.”
Reflecting on her journey, Debbie believes Military personnel bring many qualities that make them well suited to policing. “Veterans bring a positive, can-do attitude, strong teamwork skills and the ability to make decisions under pressure. These are all qualities that are vital in policing.” Her message to Service-leavers considering policing is simple: “You are bringing a wealth of knowledge, experience and life skills with you. Be confident in what you can offer, remain open to learning and don’t be afraid to ask questions.”
At Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary, Military experience is recognised as a real strength. Through initiatives such as the Policing Plus Military Pathway, Veterans, Reservists and Military family members can build a rewarding career in policing, continuing their commitment to serving and protecting others while developing new skills and opportunities for the future.
For further information regarding opportunities with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary, please visit:
www.hampshirepolicejobs.co.uk
