LiLy: The Biomedical Scientist patrolling your streets

LiLy is a Specialist Biomedical Scientist in biochemistry at Manchester University Foundation NHS Trust. After seven years of working in the laboratory and achieving specialist status in biochemistry, LiLy changed her life by training to become a Special Constable.

Specialist constables are trained volunteer police officers who spend time each week supporting the police to handle crime in their areas. She said:

“I wanted to become a Special Constable, firstly to fulfil my childhood dream and give back to the community, and I wanted to inspire children to follow their dreams, as long they believe in themselves. I’ve already spent time presenting talks and workshops in primary schools and to children’s clubs promoting biomedical science, but I wanted to do something more.

The selection process and confirmation of post took three months, as the requirement involved a fitness test, medical assessment, vetting and an interview. Only when we were successful on all the stages would we be invited for training.

The special constable training took five months and it involved classroom based learning and physical training. For example, I was taught the common laws and definitions on the different types of crimes. The physical classes involved role play, radio training and first aid training. 

As a special constable I hope to gain experience on managing difficult situations, extreme circumstances and to develop myself and give back to my community. I’ll be posted in Bolton and I can’t wait to start.

This summer I’ll also be skydiving for charity to fundraise for Lagan’s Foundation, which supports families with children who have been diagnosed with feeding difficulties or heart defects.

If anyone wants to become a special constable, you should have a high standard of service and want to help the general public by treating everyone fairly and equal. You should especially have an open mind in any situation, as events can happened unplanned.”