'Determined' PCSO honoured for breaking barriers

A Police Community Support Officer who has built trust with people in Teignmouth has been honoured at a national awards ceremony..

Liz Francis was shortlisted out of 150 people for the Police Staff Lifetime Achievement category in the first national police awards.

South Devon Chief Inspector Miranda Pusey said: "Liz has built strong relationships and nurtured trust with people, especially with those who wouldn't usually feel comfortable speaking to the police.

"Her determination and kind approach has meant she's been able to break down that barrier, allowing people to feel able to open up and speak to the police when they need help."

She said the officer, who joined the team in 2008, was "the epitome of what is expected from a PCSO and more".

PCSO Francis told John Acres at Breakfast on Radio Devon: "I love doing this job. It's so varied, you never know what you're doing from one day to the next.

"It can be exciting, it can be really sad, it can make you feel really good."

She said she loves changing people's "day for the better".

Police Sergeant Jonathon Ross said: "It is her attitude that makes the whole town love her, turning to her for help and support."

He added: "No child goes thorough school in Teignmouth without knowing who Liz is and knowing that they can go to her for help, advice and guidance."

She is often asked to speak at school assemblies and sees people she first knew as children who now have their own families.

She switched on the town's Christmas lights in 2019 and recalled it as a highlight of her work.

"Teignmouth light switch-on is a very community, lovely, friendly, family event."

She said she could not do the job without community support.

"You have got to be a person who can smile through anything. You have got to be able to listen, not judge, you have to be a bit thick skinned," she said.

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