Tippawan’s Journey of Service: A Thai PCSO Serving the Community

In the bustling streets of London where cultures, languages, and traditions blend together, figures like Tippawan emerge, a Thai woman who has turned her dream of serving her community into a tangible reality as a Police Community Support Officer (PCSO). With a history of determination and a spirit rooted in her Thai heritage, Tippawan has become a beacon of hope and assistance for her community in Hammersmith.

For Tippawan, the police calling was not simply a choice; her father, who served as a police officer in Thailand, was always a role model: “My dad was a police officer in Thailand, and it was always my dream to become a police officer, whether in Thailand or here.” shares Tippawan, reminiscing about her early aspirations to serve her community.

The path to her dream was not easy. After arriving in the UK in search of opportunities, Tippawan finally found her way to the police force, although not in the way she initially expected. “My dream has been to become a police officer or PCSO since I came to this country.” explains Tippawan. In 2007, Tippawan finally found her calling by becoming a PCSO, a position she embraced with enthusiasm and dedication.

Being a representative of the Thai community in the Metropolitan Police has been an honour and a responsibility that has filled Tippawan’s life with satisfaction: “My family was really proud of me.” she shares with a smile. Tippawan can use her skills and knowledge of the Thai community to strengthen and enhance community relations with the police. Her ability to communicate in Thai not only facilitates interaction with Thai residents but also creates a sense of trust and mutual understanding.

Over the years, Tippawan has found fulfilment in her daily work as a PCSO. Patrolling the streets of Hammersmith, being present, and working with local police officer colleagues and partners to prevent and detect crime has been a constant source of gratification for her. “What I enjoy the most is being present and preventing crime in my area and gathering intelligence to help detect crime.” Tippawan shares. “It’s a job I do every day with pride and determination.”

But Tippawan’s path has also had its challenges. From facing confrontational situations at the bus station to dealing with difficult individuals, each day presents new obstacles. However, Tippawan finds strength in her determination and the support of her team; her tireless dedication to her duty and her ability to remain calm in difficult situations have led her to overcome every challenge. “Sometimes we face difficult people, but I can always count on my colleagues.” she says confidently. Tippawan’s team serves as a source of unwavering support and camaraderie. Collaborating with her colleagues, she navigates the complexities of her role as a PCSO with unity and cohesion. From coordinating patrols to responding to incidents, each member of the team plays a vital role in upholding the safety and security of the community they serve.

Looking ahead, Tippawan has clear aspirations as a PCSO. “My goal is to be a good PCSO and keep believing in myself because I help the community.” she says. Her passion for helping others and her commitment to the safety and well-being of the people she protects continue to guide her on her journey. Her advice for those aspiring to follow in her footsteps is simple but powerful: be authentic, trust in your abilities, and use them to contribute to the wellbeing of the community. 

But, how does the community feel about Tippawan’s presence? External validation matters. Members of the Thai community trust her, knowing they can communicate in their native language. Elderly individuals, often arriving in the UK as nannies or caregivers, find genuine support in her. Tippawan’s presence has built bridges of trust, making the community feel safer and understood.

When Tippawan is not on duty, she enjoys her free time at the gym, connecting with the local Thai community, or seeking spiritual guidance at the temple, where in times of need or doubt, she turns to the monk for answers.

For Tippawan, being a PCSO is more than just wearing a uniform; it’s about being a voice for those who may not have one and tirelessly working to create a safe and welcoming environment for all. With her dedication and altruistic spirit, Tippawan continues to illuminate the streets of London and leave a positive mark on the community she loves and serves.