Police constable — Jessica Manning

After studying French at Lancaster University and Université Jean Moulin Lyon 3, Jess returned to the UK from France. Inspired by her experiences abroad, she enrolled with Police Now and is working as a dedicated ward officer with the Metropolitan Police Service

What do you enjoy most about your role?

It's being able to make a difference in the community I work in and observe the impact beyond its geographical boundaries. I also enjoy working with partner organisations and community leaders to provide long-term solutions to local problems.

How does your degree relate to your career in policing?

I was worried that my French degree may not provide much experience or skills for my role in policing, but my experience so far has proven the opposite. Not only have the skills I developed while studying a second language and living abroad provided a foundation for professional development, but they have also taught me that a range of skills are transferable between careers. These include:

• problem-solving
• communication
• respect
• interpersonal skills.

Can you tell us about a time when your degree has been useful to your role?

London is the most multicultural, multilingual and diverse city in the country, and I have been able to use my language skills from my degree on more than one occasion.

While on patrol a few months ago, I heard a radio request for a French-speaking officer at the front desk of a local station. I volunteered, explaining my fluency in French and offering assistance. Though unable to physically attend due to patrolling, I spoke with the requesting officer by phone.

The officer explained that two French-speaking individuals with limited English had entered the station claiming to have arrived by boat from another country. Unable to gather details, the officer requested my help in understanding their situation through their native tongue.

After introducing myself and my role as a facilitator, I effectively eliminated the need for an interpreter. Speaking with both individuals, I gathered factual information about their migratory journey.

This information was then relayed to the immigration team who could now provide the necessary support and protection. My language skills ensured these individuals could accurately communicate their situation, saving valuable time and resources for the police and partner agencies.

How has your career progressed since completing the programme?

Multilingual officers have opportunities that might not be available to those who do not speak other languages.

I'm looking to pursue a career in cross-border and international policing, such as Europol, Interpol, and the National Crime Agency, where I could use my skills and passion for the French language, culture, and criminal justice systems.

Can you tell us about any exciting opportunities you have been a part of recently?

I received a recommendation to apply to work at the Paris Olympics as part of the Metropolitan Police team. Unfortunately, I couldn't go because I am still on probation, being only in my second year of policing. However, I am still on the list of French-speaking officers within the Met, so hopefully similar opportunities will arise in the future.

Find out more

• Explore the role of a police officer.
• Discover how to join the police.
• Consider Police Now's National Graduate Leadership Programme.