April 2019 – Her policing career
Phyllis Sigsworth – a Soroptimist for over 55 years – spoke about her long career in the police force. She is now a member of SI Slough Windsor & Maidenhead Club, and we also welcomed two of her fellow club members to our April meeting. Initially, she worked as a civilian clerk until she was old enough to be employed as a police constable in 1950. Training included drill, first aid, life-saving, self defence, and learning the law. The police mission is to protect life and property, and to detect and prevent crime. Phyllis spoke about the many changes she has seen over the years. When she joined the police, women made up 5% of the establishment. Today 46% of constables are women. We are all familiar with the modern hi-vis uniform, bristling with equipment. Phyllis described her dark uniform, plus whistle – no truncheon,