Response policing week kicked off on Monday the 20th of April to pay homage to the work of hard working response officers.

A response officer is the first person to attend an incident, they have to take control, assess the situation and collect initial information and evidence while keeping people safe.

They also often speak to witnesses, victims and suspects who can be difficult, vulnerable or sometimes volatile.

Chief Superintendent Cherie Buttle, who is the strategic lead for response policing for Sheffield, said: “Response officers are at the heart of uniformed policing. They never know what they are going to face as they respond to a whole host of emergency incidents, but they always show bravery, resilience and an unwavering commitment to keeping us all safe. ”

On a post on Facebook announcing the response policing week many people flocked to thank the police for their efforts and bravery.

Joan Cox, who commented on the post said: “Thank you so much for your front line work. Thank you to those who manage the teams of officers and those involved in backbone services. Your teamwork is amazing as is your commitment to ensuring public safety. You don’t often receive thanks I know but it’s so well earned.”

All over the country police departments are celebrating this week and have taken the time to thank their police forces.

Assistant Chief Constable Damien Miller, responsible for local policing in West Yorkshire said: “National Response Policing Week of Action is an opportunity to recognise, celebrate, and say thank you to our response officers and to shine a light on the impact they make and the challenges they face. Through their professionalism, commitment, and courage, response officers help to reduce crime, support victims, and protect those who rely on us most.” 

Response officers’ jobs are unpredictable and can be dangerous and sometimes they get backlash.

George Allwood, 19, from Sheffield said: “While the police institution has issues, the officers I see in town are always friendly and are doing an important job keeping us safe.”