A Christmas and New Year message from Cumbria Police Federation Chair Ed Russell

23 December 2024

Colleagues, 2024 has seen some fantastic highlights in policing within Cumbria.

There have been national accolades, celebrated instances of bravery and dedication, as well as the day to day (and often unreported) instances of professionalism and sacrifice conducted every shift, 24/7 by the men and women of this Constabulary working together to provide the best service we can to the public.

It has also been a year of extreme challenge. The attrition of officers impacts us all, with experienced officers leaving policing and the loss associated with this is felt keenly at all levels and disciplines within the organisation.
Policing is a tough career and seems to increase in complexity year on year.

There are a variety of push and pull factors impacting colleagues’ decisions to leave policing but I would urge anyone considering it to seek support, speak to your line managers, speak to the Federation and help us work together to push for changes that will improve policing for all.

Attrition is often cited as a national problem which it inarguably is, we must not use that to excuse our own issues, however. The Constabulary Command team are open to discussion around any improvements that can be made to retain our workforce and we must work together to address this.

Your Federation remain engaged in these discussions and encourage any Federated officer to engage with us to make Cumbria Constabulary an attractive employer to stay with.

I would like to say a big thankyou to all officers for their tireless efforts in 2024 and whether you are working over the Christmas period, on call, or off I hope you manage to enjoy some quality time with your loved ones.

2025 will undoubtedly bring new challenges, and when it does the officers who volunteer to make up your Federation will be here to assist, advise and represent however we can.