22 July 2021

Police 2021 Pay Rise: Federation reaction

Police officer 2021 pay rise decision announced by Government tonight: "As set out at the Spending Review (2020), there will be a pause to headline pay rises for the majority of public sector workforces in 2021-22"

Reacting, James Dimmack, Chair of Dorset Police Federation, said: "We receive this news as officers are required to work on their rest days and consistently complete extend shifts. Officers are exhausted and morale is flagging.

"And now we hear that we are not to receive a pay rise whilst others in similar areas of work will be. Police are asked to attend all situations to engage with all members of society all of the time at anytime.

"Many of these people have no regard for rules or regulations and are happy to use things like Covid as a weapon against us. Covid does not discriminate as to who it will infect. This year has proven the only way to effectively ensure your safety is to isolate. In policing terms that equates to not getting involved. We can’t do that we run towards danger whilst others turn away.

"Now that commitment and selfless dedication is to be rewarded with a blatant shun. We are proud of what we do however it seems we are not appreciated for what we do. Disappointed does not cover it."

Reporting today, the “independent” Police Remuneration Review Body stated “This year our remit did not include making an overall pay award recommendation” so it did not bother. It also rejected any notion of a “bonus” for officers for their hard work policing the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Police Federation of England and Wales said: “The current pay system for policing is not fit for purpose. We are forced to enter into an inherently unfair process from the start, with the odds weighted firmly in favour of the Government where, it seems, a decision has already been made when they set the parameters for the pay review body.

“It is now essential that we review this process and look to find an alternative. A solution that has the best interests of police officer pay at heart. We will be seeking the views of our members and calling an urgent meeting with our 43 Federation branches from across England and Wales to discuss our next steps.”