Blog 16\03\2018
A view on Police with Social media engagement
Those who read my blogs and follow my Twitter account know first-hand that as a Police volunteer I actively promote and support the positive side of policing through that media. The essence of community Policing is to build mutual trust in both the laws and the Police officers who put themselves on the line every single day to uphold those laws. If and when it works, the result is a “win-win” for the Police and the community, less crime,less trouble for the Police and harmony for all. It is definitely not a “them and us” situation as a certain few feel at times towards the Police. That is a wrong mind set full stop. The “Police are the public and the public the Police” history tells you this. Understand the positive side of Police work and you will view things differently. There is a huge trend these days for Police teams to engage the public with social media platforms such as Twitter and FaceBook. This has proven over the past year or two to be very successful. Of recent weeks it has become apparent that some departments are changing the way Police can engage the public through these platforms. A large number of very active Police and popular accounts are being withdrawn and controlled by each forces communications department. Whilst this is a decision all warranted officers must adhere too it is a shame that those doing this do not see the huge benefit that this social media engagement actually gives both the Police and Public.
Many forget that police officers are the same as you and me, they have lives, families and feel the same pain and sorrow we do. Communication between them and us as public is vital. It allows you to, ask questions, get up close and personal with your police teams and that breaks down barriers it helps them and ultimately you. Police working with the public via these platforms, builds a mutual trust develops partnerships opposing the law breakers, combating antisocial behaviour, Cyber-crime and all aspects of crime. This way of engaing is a very positive move in my opinion. To consider withdrawing and stopping such engagement via Twitter or Facebook is a step backwards in my humble view. I am sure many will agree being brought positive news and understanding what each day brings Police teams is a good thing. While that engagement can be at times humour based it shows the human side of Policing that we must all learn.Working on social media creates a bond between Police and the public a trust that be developed for the good of all. I respect that in some views there is a limit to what can be brought to the public but having that vital link is an enormous benefit.
Just my humble opinion but if it declines to a greater level as some are predicting resulting in more active accounts being withdrawn very sad day for Policing. Thanks for reading as one who cares passionately about our Police Teams felt I had to put my view across.