Commendation for Neurodiversity

Last night I was dressed in my best bib (and tight fitting) tucker in my tunic and original uniform from when my youthful face was spritely...that's 19 years ago and while it was snug it still fit sort of!

But nervous joking aside (I do that when I feel uncomfortable) I was there with my wife and daughter to receive a Chief Constable’s Commendation for the work I've been doing with neurodiversity for my own force and others.

I always play down what I do in all walks of life (hence not making millions writing awesome books) but last night I felt embarrassed because I don't do it for recognition, I do it because I believe it's the right thing to do and I still see people suffering and hiding as I did over the years...and while that continues to happen I'll be wheeling out the soap box as often as I can.

The Commendation is even more important to me because I was nominated by my peers and that was accepted by the management team, telling me there's hope of progress and change in the future. Not only did my peers think my actions were worthy but by celebrating it like this, shows me that the hidden can be seen and acknowledged.

Onwards and upwards as I always say. While there will.undoubtedly be some picture of me with the Chief Constable (me looking half smirking smile and awkward as hell) I thought I'd just post the certificate because it means more. I just the mouthpiece and ugly mug that knocks on doors and stands in front of people talking rubbish ha ha.

I'm Gav, I have autism...and that makes me pretty unique! Oh, and did I say annoying too!?!

Oh and for subtle measure the rank changed as of last Friday but I can forgive the fact this was when I was a Sergeant.

Chief Constable's Commendation