Helping officers and workers to reach their full potential is at the very heart of South Yorkshire Police Women's Network.

The group, which meets on a quarterly basis, is among the many staff associations linked with the force.

It is open to all women and aims to help generate a thriving police service and enable women - whether officer or civilian - to contribute fully to policing.

The network has grown steadily since it was first launched back in January 2002 under the title of SYP Women's Management Group.

Membership back then consisted of every woman officer from the rank of Inspector to Chief Superintendent, women representatives from all the federated ranks and the force's childcare co-ordinator.

The changing police environment eventually saw a substantial review of the group in 2006, during which everything from strategy, aims and structure to business planning and work streaming were considered.

The result: a re-launch under the name Women's Network, now open to all women.

Among the network's main business is the Gender Agenda - a national initiative designed to highlight the working environment experienced by women in the police service, challenging discrimination and tackling issues like work-life balance, uniform and equipment.

If you would like to speak to any member of the network or feel they could offer you advice in your potential career choice, please email chairperson Claire Sykes at the following address: claire.sykes@southyorks.pnn.police.uk