Fundraising Story
Student Officers Turn Tradition into Lifesaving Support for Air Ambulance NI
Student Officers Turn Tradition into Lifesaving Support for Air Ambulance NI

Student PSNI officers at the College have launched a bespoke challenge coin initiative, designed to commemorate their journey into policing whilst raising vital funds for Air Ambulance Northern Ireland.

 

The idea was initiated during early college days, as Red course 3/26 bonded over discussions about their developmental journey and discussed mottos, traditions and ways to honour this time together. Inspired by the rich history of challenge coins, the students created something to both represent their shared experience and simultaneously reflect the values of the PSNI and support a worthy cause.

 

With this heritage in mind, student officers set out to create a coin with genuine meaning. One side proudly displays the PSNI crest, representing the organisation they are honoured to serve and the public they are committed to protect. The reverse bears the Constable’s Declaration, recognising the oath is more than words—it is the enduring commitment binding every police officer to fairness, integrity, diligence, impartiality, and the protection of fundamental human rights.

 

Every element was carefully considered, reflecting the students’ pride in joining PSNI and their desire to create a lasting reminder of the friendships, challenges and achievements which shaped their time at the College.

 

Beyond commemoration, the challenge coin has a significant charitable purpose. All sales proceeds will be donated to Air Ambulance Northern Ireland, supporting the lifesaving work carried out by its crews province wide. The charity provides critical pre-hospital medical care to the most seriously injured and medical emergencies, when every second counts.

 

One Red 3/26 student explains:

“This coin represents much more than our course. It symbolises our commitment to public service, the oath, and the pride we feel in becoming part of the Police Service of Northern Ireland. By supporting Air Ambulance Northern Ireland, we hope the coin will also make a meaningful contribution beyond our own class and help an organisation saving local lives every day.”

 

The commemorative challenge coin stands as a symbol of tradition, service and shared purpose—honouring the past while celebrating the beginning of a career dedicated to serving the community.

 

The Red course students had the opportunity to visit the air ambulance  and hear first-hand about the amazing work.  Kerry Anderson, Head of Fundraising at Air Ambulance Northern Ireland said “We are incredibly grateful to the student officers for their creativity and commitment in supporting Air Ambulance Northern Ireland. Initiatives like this not only raise vital funds but also help build awareness of the lifesaving service our crews provide every day. Their support will make a real difference to patients and families across Northern Ireland.”

 

Coins can be ordered using the QR code on the poster for only £20 and are available to the whole community.  Please use the bank details included to make your transfer and add your name and telephone number as reference.  You will be contacted for postage details.

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