Two Busy & Thought Provoking Months

30/06/2025

By 2025 Helen Bowden

I was ‘warned’ that my first months as new High Sheriff of Herefordshire might feel frenetic – the advice was close to the mark! The role has, at its heart, support for those involved in law and order but, as I’ve been finding, this extends to all those who work in the voluntary and support sectors helping those at greatest risk of being drawn into crime. The challenges are many and varied, often reflecting heartbreaking back stories.

I’ve taken advantage of the generous time afforded me by leaders across the sectors, including from the Police and Fire Services, and spent time with Sue Fernival (Chair of the bench) and Judge Jackson in Hereford Justice Centre observing the work of magistrates, solicitors, witness support teams, legal advisors and probation services. I was impressed by their dedication in upholding the law but equally their care for individuals and achieving the right outcome.

International Women’s Day spent with West Mercia Women's Aid & Emma Hurds (Hereford Junior Mayor ‘24

Leominster VE80 Day Celebration - Flag Raising

These introductions have been invaluable for me; meeting key teams supporting individuals who may otherwise come to the attention of the legal system for the wrong reasons. I’ve spent time with a number of people caught up in these very predicaments at their temporary accommodation, food banks and community hubs; you hear the real stories of how life has unfolded. Many have lost everything; home, family, jobs, often through no fault of their own. I have spent time with many wonderful people, from both the voluntary sector and public services, who give so much kindness and real support to these vulnerable people. Their efforts are vital to providing individuals with essential support for the here and now, but also alternative direction than crime. I can’t mention all those I have spent time with but to name but a few, in Leominster, the food bank, community centre, town council team; in Hereford, Street Pastors, Lee’s Place, Kindle Centre, Hinton Community Centre, Hands Hub; and Ross, The Hub, St Marys Church. I’ve also seen the indispensable role of nature at the Houghton Project and The Cart Shed.

The High Sheriff also has the pleasure of attending celebrations across the county, an opportunity for me to don full ceremonial dress. I have attended a number of wonderful services at Hereford Cathedral including the memorial service of Sir Thomas Dunne, attended by Her Majesty The Queen, the presentations to the first graduates from NMITE, Hereford’s groundbreaking university, and a wonderful service to commemorate 80 years since VE Day. The Cathedral is a magnificent setting and the celebrants and choir always make these special occasions.

Recognising the inspirational work of staff and pupils alike in Herefordshire Pupil Referral Units

I have also been honoured to attend award presentations to the county’s Cadets and the St John Ambulance. These young people have bright spirits and the events were thoroughly uplifting.

So a varied and utterly stimulating first couple of months. My main observation thus far is there is a huge pressure on our voluntary sector, growing demand for services but tightening financial support. I will endeavour to use my growing network of contacts to oil wheels where possible. If you are reading this thinking ‘perhaps I could help in some way’, please drop me a note at herefordshire@highsheriffs.com