MILFORD Haven Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT)’s newest recruit says she is looking forward to getting to know everyone in the community.

Twenty-two-year-old Jess Lawrence, of Pembroke Dock, joins the NPT as PCSO for the Hubberston Ward.

Having previously worked for mental health service Hafal, and at the Cleddau Bridge Hotel, Jess had previously harboured ambitions to become a family liaison officer, but on hearing about the work the NPT does decided to sign up.

She says she is looking forward to working with the local youth club and young people, to learn what’s important to them, and teach them about what she does as a PCSO.

“It’s important to build trust with young people, because if you don’t have trust in your community you can’t do the job,” she said.

She said safeguarding the elderly would also be a priority, and was looking forward to setting up new projects where needed.

“We have a lot of opportunities to try out new things and come up with projects that engage people,” she said.

“So if anyone has a good idea, come up and say 'hi'.”

In her spare time, Jess plays hockey for Pembrokeshire Ladies, and says she enjoys meeting new people.

Asked how she is settling in so far, she said: “Everyone in Milford has been lovely, now I just need to learn my way around!”

Milford Haven NPT has eight PCSOs, two PCs, and is lead by Sgt Dan Bowers.

Local officers hold regular surgeries in the community, for people to raise any issues they have. The next one will be at Milford Haven Police Station this Friday (May 29) from 5pm to 7pm.