This month, Harrow Online spoke with PC Manny Adebanjo who is a member of the 999 Emergency Responce Team… and an ordained minister!.
Manny gives an interesting perspective as one of Harrow’s black police officers.
What is your role?
I am currently part of the North West Emergency Response Team that covers the Brent, Harrow, Harlesden, Edgware, Stanmore area. My duties are to attend 999 and 101 calls, which often range from non-crime incidents to critical incidents.
My role can be very demanding and fast paced, constantly requiring me to make quick decisions which can sometimes result in life or death situations. I have been working for the Met for 22 months.
Why did you become a police officer?
Being an officer of colour, joining the police wasn’t my objective from young in comparison to many other people. However, growing up in London and my background of having studied criminology at university to a master’s degree level, I was set on bringing the change, being the change and the diversity that was needed in policing the people of London.
What are the difficult things in your job that the public may not realise?
There are many difficult things in the job, however the most challenging thing for me I would say is the mental side of things. The calls that come through the radio, the sad and heart-breaking incidents you hear, and sometimes have to respond to, can stay with you for a long time.
What are the most rewarding aspects of your job?
The most rewarding part of the job I most definitely would say is having the opportunity to make a positive impact in people’s life on a day to day basis.
What advice would you give to people thinking of joining the Met?
Know your powers because the streets won’t expect any less from you. Also, be yourself, and remember why you joined the job.
One more thing about me…
For me, I see the job as an extension of the person I am. In my personal life, I am an ordained minister and a youth leader and often go out to evangelise, give the Sunday teaching and sometimes weekly teaching. My role requires speaking to youth and essentially encouraging them to live a positive life.
This is why I love my job, as I see my job as a means to also help people I can’t readily help. Also, I know that my role actually gives me the opportunity to not only make a change, but also to protect many.
