Saturday October 10th 2026
Jocelyn Thomson and Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Houston
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
A senior officer who joined policing after a suggestion from her father has been recognised for 30 years of service.
Superintendent Jocelyn Thomson, 52, received a Long Service and Good Conduct Award after three decades serving communities across Scotland.
Jocelyn is Superintendent for Partnerships and Preventions in The Lothians and Scottish Borders Division. Based in Dalkeith, she works with partner organisations to prevent harm and improve services for local communities.
After graduating from the University of St Andrews in 1995, Jocelyn did not have a particular career in mind. She knew she wanted a challenge and a role that involved working with people.
Her father suggested policing, so she applied to Lothian and Borders Police. She was successful and says she has never looked back.
Jocelyn has since worked in Edinburgh, the Scottish Drug Enforcement Agency, Corporate Services and The Lothians and Scottish Borders Division.
Her career has included response and community policing, counter-terrorism, emergency planning, major events, national projects and strategic development.
Despite working across many different areas, Jocelyn says her heart remains in local policing.
In her current role, she works with a wide range of partners on issues including missing people, mental health and harm reduction. She also supports her team to develop and deliver new initiatives.
One moment that has stayed with Jocelyn came while she was the police lead at a music event at Hopetoun House in West Lothian.
She was given access to the roof of the historic building. From there, she could see across the Firth of Forth towards Fife and look down at the crowds below.
The view reminded her of the work taking place behind the scenes to keep people safe and the privilege of serving local communities.
Jocelyn said: “Receiving this award was a real milestone and privilege. It gave me time to reflect on my own journey and the many fantastic people I have worked with over the past 30 years.
“At the ceremony, I saw new probationers who had started the week before. It made me ask myself whether I would still recommend policing to my friends and family, knowing the challenging environment we now work in.
“After 30 years, my answer was still yes.
“What keeps me motivated is knowing that I can make a positive difference to the communities I serve. I also take great pride in seeing colleagues I have supported achieve their own career goals.
“I have experienced many highs and lows, but I feel very privileged to have worked with dedicated officers and staff who are all committed to making a difference.”
Jocelyn encourages anyone starting a career in policing to embrace every opportunity, including roles or tasks that may not immediately appeal to them.
Her advice is to look after yourself and your colleagues, learn from mistakes without dwelling on them and take pride in serving the public.
Police Scotland is recruiting. If you or someone you know is interested in a career where you can make a difference, visit the Police Scotland recruitment website to find out more about opportunities and upcoming recruitment events with Police Scotland.
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