Federation-backed welfare van ready to support members

2 June 2026

Durham Police Federation has played a central role in the launch of a new welfare van to support members and increase engagement.

The van will provide support for officers during major incidents, large-scale events, and long deployments.

The Federation branch has played a central role in the project, with the van set to be deployed from next month.

It has worked closely with Chief Constable Rachel Bacon to champion the need for dedicated welfare facilities for officers.

Members get used to what the welfare van can offer

The Federation has also part-funded the van along with Unison, the Police Benevolent Fund, and the Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen.

Branch chair Louise Guest said: “This welfare van has been a long time coming and we're absolutely delighted to see it ready to be deployed.

"The Federation has been involved from the beginning, working with the Chief Constable and the Force to bring the idea to life.

"When our members are on long deployments, such as dealing with major incidents, preserving scenes for extended periods, or policing large public events, they need access to basic facilities.

Cup of tea

“Something as simple as being able to make a cup of tea, use a toilet, get out of bad weather and take a short break can make a huge difference to their welfare and their ability to continue performing at their best."

The van will also provide opportunities for the Federation to engage with members.

Louise said: "We'll also be able to use it if we want to run member roadshows, and wellbeing and welfare events to helping us engage with officers in different locations.

"Engagement with our members is incredibly important to us, and this gives us another way of reaching officers and providing support where it's needed."

The welfare van is fully police-marked and fitted with blue lights so it can provide a visible police presence at scenes.

Inside, it is equipped with a toilet, sink, hot water boiler, seating area, diesel heater, and solar power.

Members of the Federation's Branch Council were given their first opportunity to view the vehicle at their recent council meeting on Friday, where they were able to explore its facilities and see the difference it will make to officers across the Force.

The reaction was overwhelmingly positive, said Louise.

"Everyone who's seen it has been really enthusiastic," she said.

"Our council members could immediately see the benefits it will bring. We're really pleased with the finished vehicle and excited to see it out supporting officers.”

READ MORE: Fed member determined ahead of Three Peaks challenge.