International Women’s Day honours for officers
Two female police officers from Campbeltown received national awards on International Women’s Day, in recognition of their work in helping keep the people of Argyll safe.
Detective Constable Lindsay Wallace was named police officer of the year and Police Constable Karen Cairns picked up the community service award at the Scottish Women’s Development Forum (SWDF) Awards on Monday, March 8.
The SWDF is a Police Scotland diversity staff association and its annual awards – held virtually this year – are designed to recognise the contributions and achievements of police staff, police officers and those who volunteer with Police Scotland or work with the Scottish Police Authority.
DC Wallace and PC Cairns were among several officers and volunteers from Argyll and West Dunbartonshire Police Division shortlisted in seven out of the 10 award categories.
DC Wallace, who works in the family protection unit in Campbeltown, was shortlisted in no less than three separate categories.
As well as being named police officer of the year, she was highly commended in the leadership and excellence in performance categories. Throughout a long a career, DC Wallace has demonstrated ‘outstanding performance and effectiveness’. Covering a large geographical area, she performs a role that is ‘emotionally demanding and often harrowing’.
She also mentors colleagues and is well respected by partners and the tight-knit communities in which she serves. PC Cairns was singled out by judges for the visible leadership and commitment she has shown to the rural and remote community in which she works as a youth engagement officer.
PC Cairns is group coordinator of Campbeltown Police Scotland Youth Volunteers (PSYV), an initiative aiming to encourage good citizenship among young people, inspiring them to participate positively in their community through volunteering.
Chief Inspector Marlene Baillie, area commander for Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands, told the Courier: ‘I am delighted and extremely proud to see that both Lindsay and Karen have won national awards.
‘It’s great to see that they have been given the recognition they deserve for the dedication and commitment they display in the work they do to help keep people safe in Argyll.’
Chief Superintendent John Paterson, police commander for Argyll and West Dunbartonshire, added: ‘I am incredibly proud of our police officers, and adult and youth volunteers who were recognised at the SWDF Awards.
‘Their hard work and dedication, and that of all the nominees, was inspiring.
‘I am also grateful to the SWDF for its ongoing work and support.’