OPCC Press Officer

Job Title: OPCC Press Officer
Grade: Grade F
Role Code: SP&CC087
Status: Police Staff

Main purpose of the role:

Provide a comprehensive and high quality communication and information management service to the OPCC, including providing advice and guidance to staff and representatives of the media, handling crises communication issues, enhancing information flow, keeping external stakeholders and Kent Polices Press Office informed, in order to ensure a positive image of the OPCC and the PCC is portrayed in the media.

Main Responsibilities:

• Act as Press Officer for the Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner for Kent, ensuring enquiries are dealt with appropriately, determining which information can and should be released, providing advice and guidance to staff and representatives of the media, handling crises communication issues, arranging interviews, briefings, conferences and press releases as required, to present a positive image of the OPCC / PCC and ensure best use of external media resources are made to support the OPCCs work, including local initiatives and with national APCC / NPCC Crime Prevention Campaigns.
• Ensure the effective collation and dissemination of information, internally and externally e.g. by engaging with OPCC colleagues and attending appropriate meetings such as weekly OPCC Comms review and Correspondence and Campaigns with the PCC. Acting as a point of reference, answering enquiries, identifying media opportunities, writing communication or media strategies to positively impact on the service provided to the public both operationally and in terms of public reassurance.
• Work closely with the OPCC External Engagement Officer and the Communications Officer to produce relevant communication updates, including researching, writing, editing, designing, obtaining items from staff, providing photographs and arranging the circulation and distribution (either hard copy or IT), in order to promote effective internal communication, ensuring staff are kept up to date with changes and events within the OPCC.
• Provide training, on an ad hoc and organised basis, to relevant staff to ensure a confident, correct and positive image of the OPCC is projected and the most effective use is made of the media to improve performance through improved co-operation from the public e.g. by encouraging support for initiatives.
• Assist with the design and production of the Police & Crime Plan, collating information and data to be included as directed by the PCC and Senior Leadership Team, ensuring that the document meets OPCC standards in quality and presentation.
• Co-ordinate the arrangements for local publicity campaigns and initiatives, including the production of posters, leaflets, brochures and social media presence, to promote and publicise the work of OPCC, enabling the public to be kept abreast of the people and work of the organisation.
• Provide cover for Communications Officer and External Engagements Officer for planned and unplanned absence, ensuring professional standards are maintained and a consistent message is portrayed to the media and the public.

Created May 2026

Vetting Level:

No vetting information is available for this role.

Necessary Experience:

The Press Officer will be educated to A level or equivalent standard and be a trained journalist (NCTJ qualification or similar). A sound knowledge of the working practices of local and national media through a minimum of four years experience in a journalistic or press officer role is needed. Strong communication skills both written and verbal are essential. Good IT skills are required; including experience in producing newsletters i.e. page design, layout and editing, using Desk Top Publishing programmes, and being well-versed in the use of social media.

The post holder will be flexible, self- motivated, organised, and able to make complex decisions within tight time scales whilst working with minimal supervision.

Knowledge of the police environment would be an advantage, as would an understanding of operational issues.

Behaviours:

We Analyse Critically (Level 2)

I help people be more effective by sharing the best available information and professional knowledge from diverse sources. I ask incisive questions to test assumptions and separate opinion from fact. I recognise when to take decisive action with incomplete information and plan for contingencies. I draw effective conclusions from diverse sources of information and evidence and apply these to deliver results. I assess options to make the best use of resources available, applying business and financial acumen to deliver best results.

We Collaborate (Level 2)

I create a work environment that combines diverse styles, backgrounds and experiences to get better results. I build strong relationships across a broad range of stakeholders, including colleagues, partners and communities, and use these connections to accomplish goals. I work with partners to decide clear roles appropriate to each partner's remit. I include others in my thinking and understand their priorities to make collaboration more effective. I help create joined-up solutions across organisational and geographical boundaries, partner organisations and the people we serve. I manage long-term partnerships sharing information and building trust to find the best solutions.

We Support & Inspire (Level 2)

I support others to understand their aims and wider organisational goals so they can work more effectively. I help others understand organisational changes and help them adapt to and adopt these to deliver better results. I manage resources efficiently to create the most value and to deliver the right impact in my areas. I take time to understand and provide the support people need to work at their best. I show support that helps people feel safe and valued in raising concerns. I create opportunities to support the professional development of others through knowledge sharing, coaching, mentoring and feedback.

We Take Ownership (Level 2)

I delegate appropriately by giving clear direction that recognises people's strengths and potential to achieve more. I monitor progress of my team and work to ensure deadlines are met and my team are clear on their objectives. I take ownership of individual and team performance, not leaving it to others to address problems. I take personal responsibility for seeing events through to a satisfactory conclusion and dealing with any problems both promptly and openly. I am proactive in supporting actions that tackle the bias or prejudice that may be experienced by some groups of people.

We are Emotionally Aware (Level 2)

I help other people learn from their experiences and emotional responses to support and improve their performance. I monitor the wellbeing of others, taking responsibility to ensure appropriate support is provided to help colleagues stay at their best, without stigma or judgement. I provide others with confidence by staying focused and composed in stressful situations. I recognise when my colleagues are affected by the demands, stresses and traumas that can exist in policing, and support them however I can. I role model reflecting on my own emotions to promote an open environment to discuss concerns. I role model effective communication, taking into account the needs of others. I promote a culture that values understanding difference and encourages speaking up.

We are Innovative & Open-minded (Level 2)

I am flexible in my approach, changing my plans to make sure that I have the best impact. I look for good practice that is not always from policing and consider how I apply it in my role. I provide space and encouragement to help others stand back and review their objectives and approach. This helps them to adopt fresh perspectives and identify improvements. I anticipate future challenges and changes by using my knowledge of trends within and outside policing. I generate creative ways to harness opportunities or meet challenges that arise from changing trends in policing.

Values:

Courage (accredited)

This means making, communicating and being accountable for decisions, and standing against anything that could bring our profession into disrepute. When we are motivated by courage, we actively uphold the ethical standards of the police service so that we do the right thing even when the circumstances are difficult. We set good examples, challenge unprofessional behaviour and all forms of prejudice and discriminatory behaviour, and any activity which undermines the impartiality of policing. We build and maintain the confidence of the public, our colleagues and partners through the way we conduct ourselves. We maintain professional boundaries with those we serve and work with to help protect ourselves and those around us. We are open about what we have done and why and keep our promises so we can be relied on when needed. We support an environment where ethical issues or unprofessional actions can be raised, questioned, challenged, reported and addressed. We are honest and open in our interactions and decision making. We have the courage to respond to criticism with professionalism. Examples of courage We act with courage when we: Do the right thing, even when it feels difficult Act as role models to encourage professional and ethical behaviour in others Challenge behaviours, language and attitudes that undermine our profession and support others to do the same Stand up against discrimination, prejudice and hate in all its forms Engage in difficult conversations when we hear or see unprofessional behaviour Address incidents of unprofessional conduct and take appropriate action Are open and responsive to scrutiny and challenge Are honest and truthful, giving accurate representations of our actions and records.

Public service (accredited)

When we are motivated by public service, we respect the authority and influence afforded to us by our role in society and the responsibility we have in using our policing powers. We apply those powers lawfully, proportionately and when necessary. As we strive to help deliver good outcomes for the public we serve, we seek to find opportunities to learn and improve ourselves as professionals. We reflect on our actions and decisions to see what could be changed to improve the service we offer the public. We have a responsibility to ensure that we act in the best interest of society as a whole. Improving the safety and wellbeing of the public underpins all that we do. We respond to different communities, taking into account their history and experiences including trauma and adversity. Examples of public service We provide public service when we: Act in the interests of the public, first and foremost Are open and honest about our knowledge and experience with those we serve, even when it can be uncomfortable Act in ways that give others the confidence to share experiences and ideas that can improve outcomes for the public Seek to understand and address the needs and concerns of all our different communities Seek constructive feedback from a wide variety of people, avoiding being defensive Reflect on and understand our own strengths and areas for development and take responsibility for our own learning to address gaps and improve our service to the public.

Respect & Empathy (accredited)

This means encouraging, listening to and understanding the views of others, and seeking to recognise and respond to the physical, mental and emotional challenges that we and other people may face. When we are motivated by respect and empathy, we ensure people feel valued and listened to. We treat them with patience and courtesy where possible, recognising that sometimes we may need to prioritise safety and security. We give them opportunities to share their views and take these views into account. We seek to understand other people's perspectives and recognise they can differ from our own. We engage with people who have a wide range of experiences and needs and provide a service that takes into account each individual's unique circumstances. We ensure everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, is treated equally and fairly, recognising the need to tailor our responses to individual needs to ensure we are being fair and respectful. We understand and recognise that people may respond differently to the same situation. We are careful to recognise and manage our biases, so they do not stop us from engaging with people with different needs and experiences equally and fairly. Examples of respect and empathy We show respect and empathy when we: Treat everyone with dignity and respect, even in challenging circumstances Give people an equal opportunity to share their views and take these into account Recognise and manage our biases to ensure we make fair and objective decisions Take action to understand and appreciate other people's experiences, values and beliefs and how they differ from our own Promote equality and celebrate difference Respond fairly, impartially and with sensitivity to people's needs.

Technical skills:

Health & Safety (Level 3)

Has a basic understanding of Health and Safety issues affecting the current role and working environment. Takes responsibility for personal safety and the safety of others. Aware of hazards and reports problems identified to line manager. Understands and minimises the physical risk of injury through the use of proper manual handling procedures.

Information Gathering & Analysis (Level 4)

Is able to identify reliable and appropriate sources of information and select methods of gathering information which are efficient and effective. Has a working knowledge of legislation and policy relevant to the collection, recording, storage and distribution of information.

Information Management & Technology (Level 4)

Can conduct basic computer searches and can correctly interpret data generated. Can create and amend records, according to role requirement. Knows established rules and protocols. Understands impact of data quality, and is self-monitoring on data quality issues.

Interviewing - General (Level 4)

Has received some training in reliable interviewing techniques and is able to apply these techniques fairly, consistently and to good effect. Identifies the key issues for examination and tests these using open and probing questions. Identifies weaknesses and inconsistencies in the account and seeks clarification. Keeps good written records of the interview for future

Journalism and Media (Level 5)

Maintains an up to date awareness of all matters connected with the Force which are of interest to the media and provides briefings and press releases as appropriate. Able to effectively persuade media representatives to the Force viewpoint in the face of challenging and probing questioning. Provides coaching and guidance to officers involved in more sensitive or controversial investigations, or those where there is prolonged media interest.

Knowledge of Police Environment & Policy (Level 4)

Displays a general appreciation of changes affecting the police service. Understands the inter-relationships between the roles of the various Operational and Support activities, and how organisation structures and police systems work. Possesses a detailed understanding of working procedures, practices and policies relevant to the current role and the roles of subordinates and ensures that these are followed at all times. Is clear about Force goals and effectively contributes to local business plan objectives.

Management of Police Information (MOPI) (Level 4)

Full compliance with Level 3. Has successfully completed all standard relevant Information Management and Security training package(s). Accurate use of Government Security Classification (GSC). Ensures physical and digital records are stored with appropriate security relevant to the sensitivity of the documents and has working understanding of appropriate National Retention Schedules. Is able to quality assure own records management processes as well as those of any staff for whom they have supervisory responsibility. Is aware of where to seek further support in relation to Records management within force when necessary. If nominated as an Information Asset Assistant is familiar with the NPCC Information Asset Owners Handbook.

Office Technology (Level 5)

Expert in the use of one or more office software products. Is proficient in the use of these packages to significantly enhance the quality and/or presentation of work required within the role. This is likely to relate to the use of spreadsheet, database or desktop publishing packages and may include the manipulation of reports, moving data between applications, using scanning or optical storage peripherals, etc. to make the best use of information Recognises and makes the best possible use of office systems and/or understands how office systems can be used to improve the way work is undertaken.

Photography and Digital Imaging (Level 4)

Demonstrates a sound working knowledge of all aspects of photographic and digital imaging. Plans, prepares and undertakes assignments in a range of standard and non - standard situations. Aware of the technical products available that will enhance the final image. Uses colour, exposure, framing, lighting and printing techniques to produce results that meet client needs. Identifies processing and printing faults and is aware of their causes and treatments. Understands the range of different presentation, storage and retrieval techniques to ensure the physical care of images and minimise the risk of damage. Is capable of offering photographic advice to colleagues.

Risk Management (Level 5)

Able to anticipate, accurately define and establish the relative level of risk likely to affect their specialist function, in terms of likelihood and impact, together with how the challenges facing the wider organisation might affect their role within the force. Assesses the risks of national initiatives providing feedback at the relevant level. Has an understanding of pathways to alert all appropriate senior managers to flawed or ineffective control strategies and provide continuity/recovery options. Has an appreciation that seizing opportunities also generates risks.