Police World Edition 4, 2013

Article

Catherine preparing for patrol

Policja Placements Two weeks on a Police Exchange in Krakow, Poland? Yes please! That was the answer from the two members who were selected to represent Section UK in 2013. Read their accounts below.

Inside the control room at Poznan city headquarters Paul (far right)

W ednesday 15 May 2013, seemed like any other Wednesday that had gone before. My in tray was full of lots of emails to respond to and neighbourhood disputes to resolve. However, my eye was caught by one email that said ‘ two week placement in Poland opportunity ’. I thought “that sounds interesting” but got on with my work. During the rest of the day I could not stop thinking about the email so I decided that I would make a speculative inquiry. This enquiry ended up with my boarding a plane to Poznan. On landing my apprehension was soon put at ease when I was greeted by two Polish officers - one being my translator for the two weeks, Przemyslaw Kusik. My main base was at the city police headquarters with Przemyslaw. On the first day I was shown around his department, which was the crime prevention unit. I was warmly welcomed by all the staff there. I especially enjoyed talking with the chief of police, Hubert Haegenbarth, discussing the differences between working practices. Over the next two weeks, I met some fantastic people who all seemed very happy in their work; there was a mutual sharing of working practices and genuine interest in each other’s ways. I was given the opportunity to work alongside many departments during my stay including the custody units, both youth and adult. The youth

the saddle. The proudest moment for me was to be allowed to be part of the parade for the Police day. A day that celebrates and recognises officers who have earned promotion.

custody unit was of particular interest to me. It was fascinating to learn how closely they work with young offenders to get them back on track. One of the biggest surprises for me was to learn about the number of ranks they have in their organisation and the fact that rank doesn’t necessarily mean you have a higher position. Many departments are run by lower ranking officers than the people who work within them. Even Prezemyslaw remarked that it was confusing as he attempted to explain the system. I was shown around the scientific department and allowed access to all the weapons that had been seized or used in offences. I visited adjoining towns of Kornik and Gniezno and was welcomed by both chief officers and went out on patrol with the water police and realised how important their role is. The opportunity to take control of the boat was a real highlight - it came back in one piece too! Another thing that I was allowed to take control of was a horse on my visit to the police horse department. Again something that my police service doesn’t have so I was intrigued to see how much hard work and dedication goes into training the horse. During this visit I was asked if I wanted to get on one. “Of course,” I replied. I thought “ I have been on a donkey on Blackpool beach, how hard can it be?” Well with much laughter and a lot of struggling, several minutes later I somehow had managed to get myself into

The whole two weeks were an incredible experience. Learning about Polish policing and also the history and culture of the country was memorable. It is an experience that I will always cherish.

Special thanks must go to the following three people: Agnieszka Smoczyk who was my guide and translator. Witold Drzazdzynski, The Section Poland President, he must have worked tirelessly to put the programme together and nothing was ever too much for him. And of course Przemyslaw Kusik, my constant shadow, who was there to translate and explain throughout most of my stay. We ended up not just being colleagues but very good friends and will always remain in touch. Finally I would say to anybody, if such an opportunity presents itself, take it with both hands. Paul Jones , Cornwall branch

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Police World Vol 58 No.4 2013