SOUTH SOMERSET NEWS: Jackie’s off to walk the beat for the United Nations

LONG-SERVING Inspector Jackie Gold is swapping her Yeovil and South Somerset beat area for a new role with the United Nations – in war-torn South Sudan. 

Jackie is one of four UK police officers to be selected by the Foreign Office and from today (Wednesday, May 28, 2014) will be seconded to the UN for a two-year mission.

“It is a brand new challenge, both demanding and exciting and I only hope that my years of policing experience will assist in the stabilisation of South Sudan,” she said.

Jackie has served with South Somerset police for over 23 years, including several years as Neighbourhood Sergeant for Yeovil, sector deputy and then Neighbourhood Inspector from 2009-2013.

“I began to think about an international career path about 18 months ago having undertaken some work with police officers from Qatar in 2011,” she said.

“I applied for a policing role with the UN in South Sudan, through the Foreign Office, last September and was one of four successful UK applicants to be selected."

PHOTO - TOP: Inspector Jackie Gold.

PHOTO - RIGHT: The flag of the United Nations.

Jackie added: “I was initially recruited for my expertise in community policing, to work with the South Sudanese National Police Force.

“One month prior to deployment, major fighting broke out where many lives were lost, and the team was placed on standby.

“Although our team fully expect to assess the need for Community Policing in South Sudan, the reality is that we will be working in an advisory, mentoring and monitoring capacity in terms of policing methods and aiming to help in bringing an end to many months of hostilities.

“It’s still an extremely volatile country but the UN is keen to send our delegation there to work with local tribes in an attempt to try to bring some peace to all communities of South Sudan. 

“In terms of safety, clearly this deployment comes with risks. We have undertaken much training in the UK in preparation and I am reassured that the UN will ensure that every possible measure will be put into place to ensure our absolute safety. As we are an unarmed team, when we go out into the field we will be provided with the appropriate armed escorts.” 

Jackie has now packed her bags and flying out on her new adventure after just three days' notice.

“It is going to be an incredible opportunity to work in an entirely different environment,” said Jackie.

“I am both excited and anxious about my future and only hope that I can make a difference, no matter how small.

“Working with the Avon and Somerset Constabulary has, without question, provided me with the skills and abilities I need to pursue this new path. I will miss family and friends, but will be keeping in regular contact.”

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