Devon and Cornwall Police Federation announces Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Division Award

29 September 2026

An officer who is dedicated to helping colleagues and serving the community has received the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Division Award at the 2026 Devon and Cornwall Police Federation Recognition Awards.

PC Olivia Harwood, a professional development officer based in Cornwall, has been praised for her expertise and calm leadership when dealing with sensitive cases as a LSO (licensed search officer) and IMPSA (initial missing person search advisor).

Colleagues praise her professionalism, empathy and genuine desire to serve the community. Whether supporting vulnerable victims or managing complex situations, she shows integrity, patience and sound judgement.  

PC Harwood – an officer for four years - said: “I have a passion for policing and for helping the community. I find it rewarding when I run a search for a missing person and we get a positive result, because I can help the person who's missing, but also the family of that person – it has a wider impact.

“I really enjoy the variety of the job, every day is different. I wanted to join the police to help people; when I know I have had a positive impact on somebody's life, that's what I find most rewarding.

PC Harwood has always made time to tutor new officers, even before moving to her current role.

She invests significant time in mentoring officers, modelling professionalism and reinforcing high standards. Her colleagues say she creates a supportive environment where learning is encouraged and confidence can grow.

Many new officers credit PC Harwood with shaping their early development and helping them build resilience.

Beyond this, PC Harwood is a positive presence who boosts morale among her colleagues and is always available to listen to others’ concerns. She said: “I try to keep the morale upbeat all the time at work, and make the day-to-day work just a little less pressurised.”

When she found out she was winning a Federation Award, she said: “I was quite surprised, but I feel incredibly proud.”

Devon and Cornwall Police Federation Chair Katie Clements said: “Olivia may not seek the spotlight, but her influence is felt across the team. She leads by example, promotes ethical decision-making, and challenges constructively when standards risk slipping. She consistently demonstrates the very best of policing, through quiet, unwavering commitment to doing the right thing.”

PC Harwood will attend the 2026 Devon and Cornwall Police Federation Recognition Awards on 1 October 2026.

The Devon & Cornwall Police Federation Recognition Awards are in association with Axon.

Also sponsoring the Awards are Niche, Uniform Mortgages, Gallagher, Serve and Protect Credit Union, Warren & Co, The National Police Healthcare Scheme, THB Legal, Police Mortgages, Bluline Health, Accord and No1 Copperpot Credit Union.