A Christmas and New Year message from Avon and Somerset Police Federation Acting Chair Iain Prideaux

23 December 2024

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all our members and their families a Happy Christmas and New Year.

The last 12 months have once again proved how challenging policing can be, and I want to thank you for your tireless professionalism and commitment to serving and protecting our communities.

While some of you will have some well-deserved time to rest and recuperate, it is still a busy time for many police officers.

The pressures on you do not stop for Christmas.

Our members will continue to prevent and detect crime, police events, and patrol the streets, often at the expense of precious time with family and friends.

Your sacrifices do not go unnoticed by the vast majority of the public, who value your work.
I do hope that, whatever you are doing over the festive period, you can find some time for yourselves. It’s important to take some time away from work, where possible.

This year has been the Constabulary’s 50th anniversary and we have welcomed a new Police and Crime Commissioner. The branch celebrated your achievements over the anniversary weekend and we have built a meaningful relationship with Clare Moody.

Along with enjoying the Constabulary’s Outstanding Policing Awards, I took nominees to the National Bravery Awards in London and I saw my vision for a local Recognition Awards bear fruit in October. It was a wonderful evening spent focussing on the members who go above and beyond their duties to keep us safe.

Thank you to all of you who received awards, supported the event and helped raise money for charity.

Police work is rarely celebrated in the media and those of you working relentlessly, have little or no praise for the servant heart you bring and wrap in a uniform or a suit every day. Your heart and personal pride to right wrongs, listen to unheard voices, protect the vulnerable and stop the harmful; mean that men, women and children have a place of safety with you. You are like an embassy abroad, a place of refuge and strength in times of trouble.

The job can be tough, especially at Christmas so please remember to look after yourself, check in on colleagues and spend as much time as possible relaxing with friends and family.

The Federation will continue to represent you and ensure decision-makers hear your voice, and we will continue to campaign on the issues that matter to you.

In the meantime, have a safe and restful Christmas and a peaceful New Year.