Branch to strengthen support for families of officers subject to investigations

15 October 2025

Dyfed Powys Police Federation is exploring ways to provide ‘wraparound’ support for the families of officers who find themselves suspended or under investigation.

Branch chair Delme Rees said the impact that misconduct proceedings can have on loved ones is often overlooked.

Now he is looking at working with regional colleagues in Wales to strengthen support for partners and children of officers who are subject to investigations.

It follows the Police Federation of England Wales (PFEW) annual Post-Incident Procedure (PIP) Seminar.

PFEW's Post Incident Procedure (PIP) seminar (pic PFEW)

The seminar brought together experts and guest speakers from across UK policing,

It included powerful input from Thames Valley Police officers, who brought the realities of PIP management vividly to life

Delme said it underlined how crucial family support is when officers are under extreme stress.

“Quite often, when an officer is under misconduct or suspended, it takes its toll on the whole family,” he said.

Support

“Partners and children live through the uncertainty and stress alongside the officer, but they don’t always get the support they need.

“I think there’s a space for the Federation to step in and help bridge that gap.”

Delme intends to raise the issue at the next regional meeting of the Welsh branches, and how the Federation can provide more welfare and emotional support to families during these difficult times.

That includes looking at working with existing charities, and offering better guidance and communication for partners of affected officers.

Delme said: “We recently met with the partner of a suspended officer who told us how unsupported they and their teenage children felt.

Duty of care

“The Deputy Chief Constable has asked us to have a look at what we can deliver.

“The Force’s duty of care stops with the officer, but the Federation can go further. We want to make sure families don’t feel left behind.”

The seminar also explored operational learning, including the role of body-worn video in the PIP process and how it may shape future best practice, as well as the importance of raising awareness of PIPs among new frontline officers.

“The Federation shouldn’t just be seen as an insurance policy,” Delme said. “It’s about real, personal support, and being there when officers and their families need us most. That’s the vision.”

Read more about the PFEW PIP seminar.

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