A member of the Association’s National Executive Committee has won a prestigious place at an international conference of women officers in recognition of her outstanding work.
Leicestershire Police Chief Superintendent Kerry Smith, Chair of the Association’s B District, will receive the 2018 International Scholarship Recognition Award from the International Association of Women Police (IAWP).
The award will be given to her at the IAWP’s annual training conference in Calgary, Canada.
The award will be given to her at the IAWP’s annual training conference in Calgary, Canada.
The award aims to increase international understanding and awareness of women in police roles and recognise their achievements.
Kerry was recognised from a worldwide list of applicants and will share her experiences of law enforcement with female officers from across the globe at the conference.
Currently leading a three-force specialist operations collaboration, Kerry has 25 years’ policing service and has worked in a variety of roles including response, neighbourhoods, control room, intelligence and specialist operations.
She was one of the first female firearms officers and chairs the Women Inclusive Network in Leicestershire, having significantly developed the network over the past three years. The network concentrates on developing, mentoring and coaching women.
She said:
“I feel extremely proud to receive this award. It’s so important to me to acknowledge the work of current and previous female officers, and I’m passionate about helping the next generation of women in policing.
“It’s an absolute privilege to attend this conference. I see it as a great opportunity to widen my own knowledge by learning from other women, and I hope my experience and knowledge may be of some benefit to them.”
Association Vice President Paul Griffiths, who leads on diversity and inclusion, said:
“We are delighted that Kerry’s hard work and commitment to supporting the progress of women in policing has been recognised.
“One of our priorities is to champion the benefits of valuing difference and inclusivity in the service and to work to bring about positive change in these areas and Kerry’s dedication to this cause is outstanding.”