Cops Like Us

Officers from Staffordshire police describe with brutal honesty the everyday challenges of policing in a climate of cuts and changing crime.

Staffordshire Police officers talk candidly about dealing with domestic abuse. Historically, officers have often treated domestic abuse as a private matter, but now far greater priority is given to investigating reported incidents and safeguarding potential victims. However, this change of approach has sometimes led officers to be called out to resolve petty arguments. The programme also examines the stress of being on permanent standby in the event of riots or terrorist attacks.

The Staffordshire Police officers look to the future as they take on new recruits, including trainee Holly Swift. After working in mental health services and seeing the difference police officers can make, she decided it was the career for her. At the other end of the career path is Sgt Dave Allan - who is just about to complete 30 years' service and retire. The police service recruited heavily after the miners' strikes in the 1980s, and many of those officers are now approaching retirement, including Dave.