Victoria Police welcomes first female senior police chaplain

Victoria Police has welcomed its first ever female senior police chaplain.

On November 2, Pastor Annette in’t Hout was officially commissioned by Victoria Police Chief Commissioner, Shane Patton.

While there is a group of volunteer female police chaplains, Pastor in’t Hout is the first female senior police chaplain to be employed by Victoria Police, bringing 14 years of pastoral experience to the role.

Senior Police Chaplain Team Leader, Jim Jung, said that having Paster in’t Hout join the team was an exciting and important moment.

“For us, it’s all about making sure we’re mirroring the community within Victoria Police that we’re serving,” Reverend Jung said.

“Annette comes with a great smile, a great attitude, she is quite infectious with the way she engages with people and people will enjoy the way she cares for the people she connects with.”

Pastor in’t Hout spoke passionately about the work she does to support Victoria Police members and staff in difficult times.

“People join Victoria Police because they want to help people by protecting the law and keeping them safe, and it is my heart to help out people through the tough times as they do that,” Pastor in’t Hout said.

“My hope is that people would know that I’m someone they can come to, and I will be there for them, care for them and offer my understanding and support.”

The Victoria Police Chaplain Service is an important part of the wellbeing resources available to Victoria Police staff and their families.

Wellbeing Services Inspector, Brooke Sheers, said Victoria Police chaplaincy has a proud history of providing pastoral care and welfare services to all staff and their families.

“Annette joins us to continue this tradition, building upon the foundations of others within Wellbeing Services who have cared for our members and their families through some of their most joyous, and difficult moments,” Insp Sheers said.

“The chaplains are part of a stepped care approach to the wellbeing of our employees, former employees and family and just one of the many support services offered by Wellbeing Services.”

Chaplaincy is one of many career opportunities within Victoria Police. If you think you’re made for more, follow the link to learn about the pathways available to you ??

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