#BehindtheBadge - "The most rewarding years in my career have been in working with vulnerable children – this is where my passion is.”

As we celebrate International Women's Day, hear from just one of the amazing women who works for us, DI Vicki Newton, as she talks about her 18-year career in policing and why she helps children at risk of exploitation #BehindTheBadge

“I’ve worked for Warwickshire Police for just over 18 years in a variety of roles including response, neighbourhood policing and investigations.

“After I graduated from university I wanted a job which challenged me but where I felt I was doing good, instilling my core morals and values. That’s why I joined the police."

“On my first ever shift 18 years ago I was the only woman, whereas nowadays it’s around 50/50. The force is really supportive of women in policing, we have lots of female role models and senior officers, a really positive culture shift towards gender equality.

"Funnily enough, it was my (female) inspector when I was a PC who was the very first person who ever said to me “have you thought about doing your sergeant’s exam?” She inspired me.

“Outside of work, I love being a mum and being busy with family life, supporting my children with their endeavours.  Maybe it’s this that gives me my passion for public protection. My role involves working with some of the most vulnerable people in our communities - often young people who are at risk of exploitation – and these have been the most rewarding years in my career.

I oversee any significant investigations and liaise with our partner agencies including Barnados and Children’s Services to bridge the gap between vulnerability, safeguarding and sometimes, serious organised crime.

“Missing children can be some of the most traumatised and vulnerable members of our society. To work within a multi-agency team who gets to know them individually and works with them and their families to safeguard them is incredibly valuable.

“I’ve realised this is where my passion is and if I need to work for a living, I’d rather do this than anything else.”

Did you see Beth's video about making her parents proud as a call handler or have you seen Lily's story about why she became a PC?

Have you watched Linda's video about the joy of being a Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) or read about Detective Constable Donna Parry?

Find out more about #BehindtheBadge on our dedicated webpage.