‘Not many people expect a woman to be doing my job’
Alison Harris, 51, from Oxford, went back to academia after a hunch that she’d be a great private investigator.
‘With my red hair and bold clothes, I probably don’t look like a private investigator to you. But it works to my advantage because people don’t expect a woman in her 50s to be doing this job. Sometimes, I can hardly believe it myself!
I worked with adults with learning disabilities before becoming an Age UK support worker for people with dementia. I did the job for four years but, in 2014, my dad, Tom, died. I was devastated and I found being around older people at work reminded me too painfully of my loss.
When I was thinking about what to do next, I had the idea that I’d make a great private investigator. I’d always fancied myself as a real-life Miss Marple and loved Agatha Christie’s mystery novels. I found a course in criminology at the Open University and applied. My husband, Chris,
and daughter, Alix, 25, were supportive but some of my friends thought I was mad to go back into education at 48.
I began studying alongside my job. I hadn’t been in the routine of revision for so long and it was hard, but I persevered and got through it.
I needed further qualifications and signed up to the UK Private Investigation Network (UKPIN), passing diplomas in forensic science, profiling and, of course, private investigation, where I learned about keeping calm and staying under the radar. If anyone challenges me while I’m on surveillance, I always have a story ready.
Most times it’s not the stereotype of hiding behind a lamppost; it could mean dining in a restaurant to watch if the staff are short-changing the owner, or seeing who’s at an address – the trick is to have a lead and knock on the door, saying you’ve lost your dog!
After qualifying, I contacted solicitors and insurance companies advertising my services. My first call was from a woman who was owed thousands by a couple she thought were friends. She needed confirmation that they had a lodger and extra income to help build her case. After that, the calls continued to come in.
My most common cases are tracking down those who have lost touch with family or friends, suspected adulterers and those who owe money. The internet and social media are great resources. Other times, I trawl through libraries and official records or take to the streets for information.
The biggest lesson
I’ve learned is to trust my instincts. I once felt unsure about a prospective client and, days later, the police contacted me saying he was wanted in connection with a violent crime. I’m now always aware of how people behave; everyone has a giveaway.
My friends and family are all really proud of my new career, and I’d like to think my dad would be, too.’ • missaminvestigations.co.uk
‘I’d always fancied myself as a real-life Miss Marple’