‘People don’t realise just how many times response officers leave their meals behind to attend to emergencies-I am extremely proud of them’.

Superintendent Neal Donohoe head of Emergency Response Policing across East Area-pays tribute to the incredible work his officers do each day across Havering,Barking and Dagenham and Redbridge.

In January this year, Superintendent Neal Donohoe became head of Response Policing across East Area. Neal is an officer-not a manager, who spends his time out and about with his crews as much as possible. Neal can be found out on the street or in vehicles supporting those who put their life on the line for us each day.

This week has been response week, where we pay tribute to all frontline officers who do a remarkable job everyday not only responding to emergency calls but also supporting their community whenever possible.

“The tragic incident in Hainault earlier this year really highlighted the incredible bravery of these officers”-Neal tells us. “Sadly a young man lost his life and numerous other people including two of my officers were injured. Those officers that morning did not know what was going to face them. That is the nature of response policing. They rushed to an incident where a person was brandishing a sword. They were incredibly brave.

“These officers really have to be Jack of all trades everyday. They are called out to fights, and then have to change their approach when dealing with missing vulnerable people. This happens at least ten times a day. They face unprecedented calls where they have to make split second decision.

“People have to remember that alongside answering calls, they also have to investigate crimes, so they really do have very little respite during the day.”

Neal is not only extremely supportive of his officers, but the first to back their corner when needed.

“We live in a world where there is more scrutiny than ever. Officers are regularly being filmed and we accept that is how it is, but it is important to mention that they are making split second decisions in very difficult and challenging situations. They are also nervous now about using policing powers.

“The Hainault incident showed just how dangerous the job can be, officers ran towards a male armed with a sword. It did leave two of my officers injured.”

Superintendent Donohoe is also keen to highlight just how challenging the role of frontline officers can be.

“Just this week, I have witnessed myself daily, officers having to leave meals on the table and rush out to emergency calls. That is how dedicated these officers are and how difficult the role can be. They work long hours and often have very little break time in between calls, alongside having to investigate crime as it happens.

“If I had a magic wand-of course i would like more officers, but I know the ones I have are doing their utmost to keep our communities safe.”

Ultimately Neal is very proud of his frontline teams.

“I am honestly very privileged to be working with such incredibly brave officers right across East Area.”

Let us pay tribute to all response officers for their dedication and bravery everyday across the streets of London.

Superintendent Neal Donohoe out with responses officers.

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