The Bishop of Dorchester, The Rt Revd Gavin Collins, spent a day with Thames Valley Police on Thursday 7 May, trading his clerical collar for a behind-the-scenes look at frontline policing and the support services that keep the force running.
The Thames Valley Police Chaplaincy provides personal, practical, and spiritual support to officers, staff, and their families, regardless of faith. Led by Lead Chaplain Revd Nicky Skipworth, the team includes volunteer chaplains across Oxfordshire, Berkshire, and Buckinghamshire.
Bishop Gavin was hosted by Nicky. They visited several parts of the organisation during the day, including the main 999 communications room, the dog section training centre, and the mounted section stables. The visit also included a meeting with Matthew Barber, the Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner. 
The visit highlighted the breadth of work carried out across Thames Valley Police and the important pastoral role chaplains play in supporting officers, staff and their families across the force.
Reflecting on the experience, Bishop Gavin said:
“I was inspired by the evident energy, commitment and dedication of all the police officers and staff who I met on this richly varied day.
“Policing is a tough calling, and as well as giving me the opportunity to thank those officers who I met during the day, it was also very inspiring to see the valued role that the Police Chaplaincy team play in supporting the Police, TVP’s civilian staff and their families.”
If you’re interested in becoming a chaplain, Thames Valley Police welcome new chaplain applications from all sections of the community throughout the year. Find out more about becoming a Thames Valley Police Chaplin https://share.google/nCfYERiQM50xTpNM6