Christmas Day Call Handler Ben Garrod Steps Up While Others Celebrate
While most families unwrap presents on Christmas morning, Nottinghamshire Police emergency call handler Ben Garrod will be glued to his phone, keeping the public safe. Ben, 24, is working his first full Christmas Day on the frontline, taking crucial 999 and 101 calls from the force’s high-tech control room.
A Day Like Any Other—For The Team
Ben has been a call handler for 18 months and says Christmas shift feels just like any other. “We’re away from our families, but the team is close-knit—a kind of surrogate family for the day,” he explained. “I’m expecting a jovial atmosphere. We’re all here because we enjoy helping people. Christmas Day is no different from any other shift.”
From Rolls-Royce Apprentice to Police Lifeline
Before joining the police, Ben was an apprentice at Rolls-Royce in Derby. He’d always fancied a career in law enforcement and found his perfect fit in the control room. “You have to stay calm under pressure, think quickly, and be decisive,” he said. “If anyone’s thinking about giving it a go, I’d definitely recommend taking the plunge.”
From Life-Threatening Emergencies to Oddball 999 Calls
Ben handles a wide range of calls daily—from life-or-death emergencies to bizarre requests like a chap ringing 999 to check if his lottery ticket had won. “We get all sorts,” he said. “You have to be a good listener, communicate well, and empathise with callers. Every call is different.”
“Being a call handler is all about listening to callers, understanding how they’re feeling, and then offering support and help.” — Ben Garrod
