20 July 2022

“This pay award effectively represents a pay cut in real terms for all police officers” Chair James Dimmack reacts to the 2022/23 Police Officer pay rise announcement

All police officers will receive a £1,900 pay rise from 1 September, the Government has announced.

The rise equates to an 8.8% increase for the lowest paid officers – and is equivalent to a 5% overall pay award when all ranks and pay scales are taken into account.

The Home Office said it has accepted the recommendations of the Police Remuneration Review Body in full, saying it reflects “the vital role police officers have on the frontline making our streets safer”.

James Dimmack, Chair of Dorset Police Federation, said: “This is an attempt at placatory smoke and mirrors which goes no way to addressing the very real pressing issues around this matter.

“This pay award effectively represents a pay cut in real terms for all officers. We are in no way addressing the years of decline in Police pay that notwithstanding the current cost of living crisis we now find ourselves in.

“The Home Secretary stated this shows how she values the Police. I would argue that suggests she values us around 4% less than inflation - which is not a ringing endorsement.

“I know we are living in difficult times however the Police need to be appropriately renumerated. This is to ensure we attract, recruit and crucially retain the right type of person to undertake what is a uniquely challenging, dangerous job.”

The Government also announced it has raised the starting salary for officers joining on the Degree Apprentice programme to £23,556 – also from 1 September.

The Dog Handlers’ Allowance will also be increased by 5%.

Home Secretary Priti Patel said: “It is right that we recognise the extraordinary work of our officers who day in, day out, work tirelessly to keep our streets, communities and country safe.”

In its recommendation to the Government, the PRRB noted concerns about the cost of living on junior ranks.

The Home Office said it would be supporting forces with an additional £350 million over the next three years, from within its existing budget, to help cover the associated costs of the pay award.