Notts police officer wins national award for 'vital' work with bereaved families
A Nottinghamshire police constable has won an award for her excellent support for bereaved families.
PC Jo Baxter won the national outstanding officer achievement award on Wednesday at the Family Liaison Officer 2019 celebrations organised by Brake, a road safety charity.
The event held at the Houses of Parliament applauded the popular police officer and investigation officer, Sophie Law, who was also highly commended in the family award category which was open to nominations from families supported by the liaison team.
Mary Williams, chief executive at Brake, said in the aftermath of road incidents, family liaison officers provide "vital" care to families when they need it most.
"We were delighted to receive such a high number of exceptional nominations for our second ever FLO Awards, and it has been inspiring to read so many exemplary accounts of guidance and support," she said. "It was an honour to see the winning nominees celebrated at the ceremony at the Houses of Parliament, and on behalf of Brake, I would like to congratulate all of this year’s entrants and nominees for their outstanding contributions to bereaved families."
She added: "We are also incredibly grateful for the support of Birchall Blackburn Law, Horwich Cohen Coghlan Solicitors and Slater and Gordon Lawyers, without whose funding these awards would not have been possible.”
The awards presented by chief superintendent Richard Wood, of the Metropolitan Police, were hugely supported by Brake partners and volunteers wanting to recognise the incredible achievements and help provided by police family liaison officers, and showcase the best practice in supporting families following a road death or serious injury.
Police constable Jo was commended highly by the judges for not only her professional practice, but her ability to maintain relationships with families in the most challenging circumstances. As well as this, judges highlighted her adaptability and commitment to giving vulnerable households tailored support through the use of external agencies.
Other categories included the recognition for excellent long-standing service which was awarded to PC Tony Hayhurst at Cheshire Police.
A full list of shortlisted and nominated officers for the 2019 awards is available at: www.brake.org.uk/uncategorised/1874-brake-family-liaison-officer-awards-2019.
The event was sponsored by Birchall Blackburn Law, Horwich Cohen Coghlan Solicitors and Slater and Gordon Lawyers.
