Lucy McCann, 36, used to work in a corporate law firm before joining Leeds Trinity University in 2020 to study as part of the Degree Holder Entry Programme with West Yorkshire Police.

The work-based programme allows learners to combine workplace learning opportunities with theoretical knowledge gained through formal classes that are relevant to modern-day policing.

Lucy had always aspired to join the police and applied for the Professional Policing Practice Diploma at Leeds Trinity University because she wanted to set herself a new challenge and achieve her lifelong ambition.

Throughout her two years at Leeds Trinity, Lucy was supported by her lecturers and was given the opportunity to be assessed for dyslexia. This led to her gaining a better understanding of what her needs were and preparing herself for tasks that dyslexia can affect. As a result of this, Lucy has persevered over the last two years to complete her studies and achieve her goal of becoming a police officer.

She graduates today with a merit and ambitions to progress to further study for the National Detective Exam in 2023, to become a Detective Constable.

Lucy said: “I have learnt so much in a such a short space of time and have developed and grown as a person, becoming more confident in myself. I know that the skills and knowledge I have gained from the course will help me in the future to be a better person and police officer.

“I waited so long to be where I am today and I am thankful for being here. I’d like to personally thank Jacob Thandi (University Teacher in Policing), Joseph Simmons (Progress Tutor – Professional Policing), Beth McCarthy (University Teacher in Policing), Jennifer Wright (Specific Learning Difficulties Practitioner) and the staff at West Yorkshire Police for all their help and support. Without their help and patience, I do not believe I would be where I am today.”

University Teacher Beth McCarthy, on behalf of the School of Criminology, Investigation and Policing at Leeds Trinity, said: “Lucy went above and beyond the expectation when writing her research project. She explored how mental health issues can impact officers and support networks available. We at Leeds Trinity University are pleased that West Yorkshire Police will benefit from this output and wish her all the best in her Policing career.”