Schools liaison police officer role reinstated after a decade
A FULL-TIME Police schools liaison officer has been appointed to work across the island.
PC Nick Boughay has spent nearly 25 years as a police officer, starting his career in Hertfordshire before moving to Guernsey five years later in 2005.
He worked on shift for five years until he made the move to the community team, which he has remained a part of since. Over the years he has taken on tasks such as dealing with antisocial behaviour and attending parish walkabouts.
‘I get a lot of face-to-face time with members of our community and have become a recognisable figure,’ said PC Boughay.
As a community officer, he has also spent a large amount of time in some local schools where he has delivered lessons on themes such as internet and road safety, while being on hand to answer any questions.
As full-time schools liaison officer, which means he stays in the community team, he will extend his reach to all local schools and increase his time spent with the pupils, which he says will reduce the stress on the wider police force.
‘I’m looking to build on the relationships I have with many of the students and form new ones.
‘When I go out to deal with certain incidents, such as at the bus terminus, I’m already a familiar face to many, which makes communication a lot easier,’ said PC Boughay.
The position has been reinstated following a 10-year break and has seen added responsibility for the officer.
PC Boughay will focus on working behind the scenes in schools, becoming a conduit between senior management and front-line teachers to improve stability.
He will advise staff members on the law as well as working on any new plans and projects he sees as beneficial.
‘I’ve been given a blank canvas to work with,’ he said.
