PCSO Adrian Butterworth Crowned Armed Forces Champion 2022
PCSO Adrian Butterworth scooped the prestigious Armed Forces Champion 2022 award at the Armed Forces Network’s Together We Can Make A Difference conference in Sussex this May. The accolade honours individuals showing outstanding dedication to the Armed Forces community.
Championing Veterans on the Ground
Butterworth, a Crime Prevention Officer with Thanet Community Safety Unit, is a fierce advocate for veterans. He regularly visits local groups, advising on safety and tackling issues facing former service members. As Kent Police’s Armed Forces Champion, he responds to calls involving veterans flagged through the Force Control Room, offering vital support.
- Attends veterans’ coffee mornings run by Age Concern in Margate.
- Warns elderly veterans about scams targeting them.
- Leads community events like Armed Forces Day and Remembrance Sunday in Thanet.
- Organised a volunteer clean-up of Margate’s War Memorial ahead of Armistice Day.
From Soldier to Supporter
“I was not aware I was receiving an award – it came as a complete surprise! I had no idea!” said Butterworth, a former Royal Artillery man with nine years’ service.
He added, “Any call relating to veterans, whether they’re victims or offenders, gets flagged to me. I reach out for a chat over a cup of tea. If they’re struggling with PTSD, mental health, housing, or employment, I try to help.”
“A problem shared is a problem halved. If they want to open up without judgement, I’m here to listen and support.”
Police Praise for PCSO Butterworth’s Unique Role
Inspector Ian Swallow of Thanet Community Safety Unit praised Butterworth’s efforts:
“Adrian uses his own military experience to connect with veterans in need. Sometimes people want to talk to someone who gets it, and that’s where he shines. He helps report crimes and links veterans to other support if it’s not a police matter.”
PCSO Butterworth received his award officially from Lady Colgrain, Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Kent, at the Kent and Medway Civilian Military Partnership Conference in Folkestone on June 7.
