An Acting Special Inspector who is “exceptionally dedicated and committed” to her role has won the Special Constable Award at the Surrey Police Federation Recognition Awards. 

Acting Special Inspector Sophie Yeates has been a Special officer for four and a half years and has demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment throughout her progression from Special Constable to Special Sergeant and now Acting Special Inspector.

 
A senior colleague said: “Her tireless efforts and profound impact on both her colleagues and the community make her a standout candidate for the Special Constable Award.”

They continued: “Sophie’s commitment to victim care and community support has been exemplary. Whether responding to emergencies or engaging in proactive community outreach, she has shown unwavering empathy and professionalism, making a significant difference in the lives of those she has helped.”

When Acting Special Inspector Yeates first became a Special Constable, she was a teacher in her day job, but now she’s a member of Police Staff for Surrey Police, supporting officers and staff who are neurodivergent and making sure they have reasonable adjustments in place.  

Meanwhile, in her role as Acting Special Inspector, she oversees the training and ongoing support of new Special Constabulary recruits.

 
Her involvement is crucial, as she provides mentoring and guidance that ensures recruits are well-prepared and supported. This has led to a more effective and cohesive team, significantly enhancing the Constabulary’s overall performance and morale.

 
Her commitment to recruitment has also made a significant impact. She actively encourages new talent into the Special Constabulary – including her own mother! This has expanded the force and introduced fresh perspectives.

 
Acting Special Inspector Yeates said: “My grandad was a police officer and I saw the impact he had. Then my uncle joined the Special Constabulary in Northampton and I thought, ‘Well, if he can do it, I can do it’. So I did, and I’ve never looked back. I went in with no policing background, so I had no idea what I was going into. But honestly, it’s the best thing I've ever done.”

Acting Special Inspector Yeates said she enjoyed the social side of being a Special officer: “I love meeting new people, working with the other officers in the team and knowing that they can trust me to support them in all the jobs we come across. I also love interacting and engaging with the communities.”

 
She said she was “really surprised” to win the Award, saying: “I had no idea!”

Surrey Police Federation Chair Darren Pemble said: “What a family affair! Sophie is truly committed to policing and has made a huge difference to the Special Constabulary, which is an integral part of our force.

 
“I congratulate her on this very well-deserved award.”

Acting Special Inspector Yeates will attend the Surrey Police Federation Recognition Awards on Thursday 12 December.

The lead sponsor for the Awards is Axon.

 
Also sponsoring are Uniform Mortgages, Serve & Protect Credit Union, Flint House, Police Mortgages, No1 Copperpot Credit Union, Niche, No5 Chambers, Accord, Douglas Rowe Financial, Police Mutual, National Police Healthcare Scheme, The Surrey PCC and Metfriendly.