Federation member to cycle 100km for charity

29 April 2021

A Federation member who received invaluable support from the Police Treatment Centres is now cycling 100km to raise money for the charity after they helped get him back on his feet.

Stacey Hamlett is taking part in this year’s Back on the Beat challenge, an annual event which raises money for the Police Treatment Centres and raises awareness of the care they provide.

The custody sergeant, a keen cyclist, says he wants to help raise vital funds for the charity after receiving support from them twice in the past 11 years.

“The facilities at the centres are just fantastic,” says Stacey, who has been a member of Derbyshire Police Federation since he joined the Force 21 years ago.

“You stay at the centre for a two-week spell and receive intensive treatment, working every day towards recovery. 

“I wouldn’t have seen such a big difference if I hadn’t received support from them.”

Stacey first received rehabilitation and recovery support from the Police Treatment Centres in 2010 after a serious football injury led to him having reconstructive surgery on his right knee.

“I actually had to re-learn to walk,” explains the father-of-one, “At one point, it was a real concern that I wouldn’t be able to walk again or even do my job. If it wasn’t for the Police Treatment Centres I might not have been able to return to the frontline.”

Last year, Stacey once again found himself needing support from the charity, after he injured his left knee.

“The centres provide more than just a gym,” says Stacey, “You’re supported by colleagues and health professionals, it’s a whole support network, all in one place.

“Being there massively makes a difference. It’s one of those things where people don’t appreciate what the centres do until they really need them.” 

Although Stacey has to avoid contact sports now, he keeps fit thanks to his passion for cycling. 

“I’m really looking forward to the challenge. I hope to do it all in one day, with no breaks,” added Stacey, who is keen to complete the ride on 15 May, which would coincide with his work anniversary, 21 years to the date since he joined the Force. 

“I’ve only ever ridden 100km twice so this will be a bit of a challenge. The next task for me is deciding on a route.”

The Police Treatment Centres provide physical and mental health support for serving and retired police officers, as well as their loved ones.

Their annual Back on the Beat challenge was forced to take a break last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This year’s event, which usually takes place at the Police Treatment Centres in Harrogate and around North Yorkshire, will run from 10 to 16 May, giving riders seven days to complete the challenge.

For the first time ever, this year's event is virtual, which means participants can take part from the comfort of their own home, or in a location that suits them.

Sponsor Stacey.