A Sussex Police officer has been recognised with a national award for her work in enhancing support for victims of sexual offences.
Detective Sergeant Gemma Holley, from the Public Protection team in Littlehampton, received the Police Now award for 'outstanding leadership' at a ceremony in London.
She was honoured for identifying ways to improve services for victims, ensuring they receive better and more consistent support.
The annual 'Alumni Impact Awards' celebrate the achievements of officers who have graduated from one of Police Now's national programmes and have gone above and beyond to reduce or solve crime, problem-solve in their communities, or innovate and lead within policing. Gemma joined Police Now's one-year Frontline Leadership Programme in 2022, which supports talented constables to progress to sergeant rank, with a focus on inclusive and innovative frontline leadership.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Cullimore said: "When Gemma was tasked with delivering the national rape and serious sexual offences investigative skills development programme in the force, she trained over 330 officers – massively exceeding the assigned target of 51 officers.
"Having significantly delivered against the national requirement, she garnered national attention for the work from Op Soteria's joint unit and the Home Office. The impact of Gemma's work will make a real difference to victims of rape and serious sexual offences."
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