Detective Constable Amy Burridge, 36, has dedicated the last 16 years to serving Northumbria Police Force, having begun her career as a Police Community Support Officer (PCSO).
Having developed an unparalleled understanding of her community and the challenges victims face, Amy’s dedication was recently recognised at the Force’s Pride in Policing Awards.
Amy clinched the title of Police Officer of the Year, an award sponsored by the Northumbria Police Federation.
Her achievement was earned through extraordinary work on two particularly impactful cases, both of which demonstrate her unwavering commitment to victims of crime.
Chief Constable Vanessa Jardine, Detective Constable Amy Burridge and branch chair Nick Munnelly
The first case involved a woman who had reported being raped in 2022. Tragically, the victim took her own life during the investigation. Despite the heartbreak, Amy felt a profound responsibility to see the case through.
“I didn’t know her for very long, but during that time, I built such a strong rapport with her. She had the courage to come forward, and I felt a duty to complete the investigation – to fight for justice for her and her loved ones – especially her young son,” Amy recalled.
Taking ownership of the investigation, Amy worked closely with the victim’s family to ensure they were supported throughout the process. She meticulously gathered evidence and built a strong case, understanding the importance of giving the victim a voice even after her passing.
In 2025, the offender was finally jailed. Amy continued: “It was incredibly emotional for everyone involved. We had achieved justice for the victim, but it was so tragic that she couldn’t see the outcome.
“I had to be her advocate – her voice.”
The second case involved another investigation where the suspect ultimately had to be released, leaving the complainant without the outcome she had hoped for. Yet Amy’s support had a lasting impact.
The complainant later sent her an email expressing that Amy had not only ‘changed her life’ but ‘saved her life’ through the way she handled the case.
Today, that woman has become an advocate for other victims – a role she credits in part to Amy’s guidance and reassurance.
Amy’s path to her current safeguarding role was shaped by personal and professional challenges. An on-duty injury prevented her from continuing frontline work, leading her to transition into a detective role within the safeguarding team.
“It’s an emotional job, but I quickly realised this was the role I was always meant to be in,” she said.
Over six years in the team, Amy has become a trusted advocate for victims, encouraging them to come forward and ensuring their voices are heard.
Balancing her demanding career with motherhood, Amy remains steadfast in her commitment to justice. She reflects on receiving the Police Officer of the Year award with humility and gratitude.
“I was proud to receive it, but I accepted it on behalf of the whole team. I’m just one cog in a much larger team. It was a lovely event celebrating the good in policing. We were surrounded by inspirational colleagues, it was very emotional,” she said.
Branch chair Nick Munnelly added his own praise: “Amy exemplifies the very best of policing.
“Her dedication to victims, her advocacy in difficult and sensitive cases, and her resilience in the face of personal challenges make her a remarkable example of professionalism and compassion within the Northumbria Police Force.
“Amy’s professional excellence and compassionate heart make this recognition richly deserved.”