Low pay in policing threatens the ability to attract and retain the best officers, Dorset Police Federation has said, after a new survey found 63% of Dorset Police officers were concerned about their household finances.

Metfriendly’s Police Family Finance Index Report (Spring 2025) also found that nearly a quarter (24%) of Dorset Police officers were considering leaving their jobs by 2030. Almost half (47%) were considering putting a stop to paying towards their pensions, and nearly a fifth (17%) said they were planning to take on a second job.

Nationally, over half (55%) of police officers said financial stress was impacting their wellbeing and, shockingly, 17% of officers reported missing meals due to a lack of money.

James Dimmack, Chair of Dorset Police Federation, said: “These figures are troubling, but not altogether unexpected. We live in an expensive part of the country and we are feeling the effects of inflation. Police pay has fallen 21% behind in real terms since 2009, a void in officers’ finances that urgently needs to be filled.

“Officers’ financial difficulties are increasing, alongside the fact that they are working in an increasingly challenging environment. They are feeling unable to meet demand, and often feel isolated as a result of reduced numbers of officers on the frontline.”

James said this financial shortfall was being addressed “to a point”. But he said: “The reality is that Dorset Police is not sufficiently funded to provide the service we should be giving. Our officers are so dedicated and are doing a fantastic job, but they need further support and are at risk of burnout.

“We need to attract and, crucially, retain the best officers. Policing is and always has been a vocation, and serious investment and support is required in order to preserve this status. I am confident that Dorset is full of people proud to serve the public. We need to ensure the environment is conducive to ensuring they feel they can remain and flourish within the force.

“Things are changing slowly for the better in relation to earlier realisation of top pay points and alternative entry routes. This needs to go further to ensure that police officers are valued both financially and socially, considering the complex and challenging work they undertake.”