A Fife police officer has been rewarded for his dedication to the community by supporting youngsters.
PC Ross Fisher picked up the Community Commitment prize at this year’s Scottish Police Federation (SPF) Awards, held in Edinburgh.
A school liaison officer, PC Fisher was raised in Glenrothes and has become a role model for local children.
He covers the town’s three high schools and is well-known and respected by pupils and staff.
The police constable regularly supports youngsters who may be being bullied or are low in confidence and often manages to identify and intervene in problems before they develop.
After he was nominated by colleague PC Fiona Johnston, PC Fisher discussed how his role as schools campus officer helps children speak up about their issues.
He said: “It helps them feel more confident in dealing with the police — particularly in their teenage years, which can be a very difficult time for them.
“It’s important that they have somewhere safe where they can speak and discuss anything that may concern them.”
‘He sums up the very best of Police Scotland’
Scottish Police Federation East Area Committee chairman Graham Ross said: “He has made a huge contribution to the community and is exactly the kind of officer the service needs to connect with the public.
“He sums up the very best of Police Scotland.”
PC Fisher is also a black belt in taekwondo and has run a martial arts club in his free time for over 25 years.
He offers events outside of school for pupils to see the benefits of physical exercise while also widening their social circle and improving their confidence.
PC Fisher encourages pupils to attend, and discreetly allows children to go along even if their families cannot afford to pay for the classes.
Pam Davie, headteacher at Auchmuty High School, which PC Fisher covers, said: “Ross is very much part of our school.
“He has strong relationships not only with the young people but with the staff, and also the parents – he’s been around a long time, he knows the families really well. And that is integral in a community like ours.
“Ross has done a really good job. We really value his input.”
Conversation