International Women’s Day
For International Women’s Day 2024, PCC Mark Shelford discusses just some of the women who have inspired him in his role as PCC.
Professor Adeela Ahmed Shafi (MBE), Professor of Education in Youth Justice, University of Gloucestershire
“What an inspirational person: an academic, a campaigner, and a leader. Adeela is Chair of the Avon & Somerset Police Scrutiny Panel, founder of the Bristol Muslim Strategic Leadership Group and Commissioner for Race Equality in Bristol. She generously gives of her time to push for meaningful change for those who may not be given the opportunities to be heard.
Claire Bloor, SARSAS CEO
“SARSAS CEO since 2018, Claire has overseen an enormous period of change and growth for the organisation and the Sexual Violence Consortium. As a result, there has been more support in our area for victims of sexual violence. She has also developed the service to focus on prevention work through the expansion of their training service. She is a tireless campaigner and an excellent leader.”
Sarah Crew, Avon and Somerset Chief Constable
“In 2022, I appointed Sarah Crew as Avon and Somerset Police’s first-ever female Chief Constable. I am inspired by her passion and commitment to work towards the organisation’s ambition to become the most inclusive police force in the UK. She shows time and time again that she is does not shy away from difficult decisions and tough choices. She leads with bravery, calm, and compassion and I am sure she will inspire many girls and boys to consider a career in policing!”
Claire Hiscott, Deputy PCC
“It’s hard to capture in words my regard for my deputy Claire. She manages to combine depth of professional knowledge with a brevity that we all need when thinking about some of the tragic situations we come across in our work. I value her sage counsel that comes from years of hard work on the frontline of the NHS and as a local councillor. She is also a staunch campaigner on the issue of VAWG, working hard on championing the local specialist services.