Metropolitan Police
Estate agent Bettie Politi is a member of the Metropolitan Police Volunteer Programme. The Lauderdale Road Synagogue member is also a Freeman of the City of London and is the incoming president of the St Marylebone Rotary Club, the first woman to be so honoured at the club
Why the police?
I read in a newspaper that the local police station closed each day at 4pm and they wanted volunteers to keep it open later and at weekends. I have volunteered for the West Hampstead police station for four years.
What does your volunteering involve?
I mainly help to man the front desk reception. My initial training took place over several months and I take part in continuous training, exercises and courses. Training has included guidance on self-defence, health and safety, fire and safety precautions and resuscitation. Of course, when I am on duty — and we have a rota of two people at a time — there are always police officers available for assistance.
What do you enjoy most about being a volunteer?
One meets many people from which I have made long and lasting friendships. Sometimes, a business contact, a synagogue member or a friend comes to the station to report a loss or ask for information, and they are amazed to see me sitting at the desk.
What is your most memorable volunteering moment?
One day when I was on duty, a lady came in and said she wanted to report the loss of her handbag. Usually, this would be a day or two after the loss. I prepared her statement at great length, which one does for all occasions, and at the end asked her when the handbag was lost. She replied two and a half years ago!