Echuca police’s Acting Senior Sergeant Gemma Hargreaves and Leading Senior Constable Michelle Neil are DLOs for the Campaspe Police Service Area.
A DLO’s job involves providing accessible policing for people with disabilities, building relationships within the disability community and enhancing their access to support services through the proper referral pathways.
Sen Sgt Hargreaves said the role encouraged inclusivity and the breaking down of barriers.
“The role promotes inclusive working relationships and builds networks within the community,” she said.
“It helps with breaking down barriers and promotes positive interactions through community events, one to one interaction and identifies early intervention opportunities.”
She said the role has been welcomed by the disability community.
“(The role) has been embraced,” she said.
“Police DLOs are being approached and utilised for community events, fundraising events and police specific reportable incidents.”
As the role is still new, training has been held and additional training and resources will continue to be reviewed and updated.
Outside of the police, Ldg Sen Constable Neil also holds a certificate IV in the field of disability and has been involved in the disability sector for more than 20 years.
The community can reach out to the DLOs to attend community events or to provide advice and reassurance.
DLOs can also engage in early intervention within the community to prevent people from committing crimes.
If you would like to contact the DLOs, you can call the Echuca police station on 5483 1500 or email ECHUCA.UNI@police.vic.gov.au
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