Island Echo is launching a new bi-monthly column from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary, giving local officers the opportunity to speak directly to residents about policing priorities, ongoing work and issues affecting communities across the Isle of Wight.
In the first edition, newly appointed East Wight Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector Jodana Ford introduces herself and explains the approach she hopes to bring to the role.
My name is Jo Ford and I am delighted to have recently taken on the role of Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector for East Wight.
I have worked in policing for 21 years across a variety of frontline and community-focused roles and throughout have remained passionate about building strong relationships with the communities we serve. I want to ensure local concerns are at the heart of our approach to policing your community.
Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work in a range of operational and neighbourhood policing environments. These experiences have given me a strong understanding of the challenges faced by local communities, as well as the importance of visible policing, problem-solving, and partnership working with community partners and stakeholders.
I am excited by the opportunity to work on the Isle of Wight, alongside residents, local businesses, community groups, and partner agencies, to help keep the Island a safe place to live, work and visit.
My priorities are simple; listening to our communities, tackling the issues that matter most to residents, supporting vulnerable people, and ensuring our neighbourhood teams remain visible and accessible. I strongly believe that effective policing is built on trust, engagement and working together to solve problems.
Recent patrols as part of Op Spider demonstrate the sort of community-focused policing that will be at the heart of my approach. This operation focuses on high-visibility foot patrols in anti-social behaviour hotspot locations across Sandown, Shanklin, Ventnor, Seaview, and Nettlestone to tackle ongoing ASB and deter criminal activity.
Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family and making the most of the outdoors whenever possible, I enjoy keeping fit and have in the last year taken up netball!
I am proud to be taking on this role and look forward to meeting residents across the Island. I have a fantastic team I work alongside so please do come and say hello when you see us on patrol in your area.
