PCSO Sophie Lusher of the Tunbridge Wells Community Safety Unit has been recognized for her heroic actions in saving the life of a choking woman. Her quick thinking and decisive response earned her an award from the Royal Humane Society, presented at the Chief Constable of Kent Police’s recent awards ceremony on Tuesday, February 27, 2024.
The incident occurred on the afternoon of Tuesday, June 27, 2023, while PCSO Lusher was on patrol along Pembury Road. She noticed a woman inside a parked car waving her arms frantically, signalling for help. Without hesitation, PCSO Lusher stopped her vehicle and approached the scene.
Upon closer inspection, she discovered that the woman was choking on a sandwich. Drawing on her first aid training, PCSO Lusher administered a series of abdominal thrusts and back slaps, successfully clearing the woman’s airway and restoring her breathing.
Following the life-saving intervention, PCSO Lusher accompanied the woman to Tunbridge Wells Hospital as a precautionary measure, where she received further medical attention. Thanks to PCSO Lusher’s prompt and effective response, the woman made a full recovery.
Chief Constable Tim Smith commended PCSO Lusher for her exemplary dedication to duty, emphasizing the significant impact her actions had in saving a life. He expressed gratitude to PCSO Lusher and all Kent Police officers and staff who consistently go above and beyond to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.
PCSO Lusher, reflecting on the incident, expressed her gratitude for being able to help the woman in distress. Despite receiving the award, she humbly emphasized that the greatest reward was knowing that the woman she assisted was safe and well. Her nearly 17 years of experience and extensive first aid training equipped her with the skills needed to respond effectively to the emergency.
The heartwarming encounter continued beyond the award ceremony, as the woman visited the police station the following day to express her gratitude with flowers. PCSO Lusher reciprocated the gesture by visiting the woman at her home, where they shared a coffee together.
PCSO Sophie Lusher’s selfless actions serve as a testament to the dedication and compassion exhibited by Kent Police officers and staff in serving their community
