Training investment in branch board will improve service for members, says chair
19 December 2025
Delme joined six branch board colleagues for a training event earlier this month. The event was organised by the Police Federation of England and Wales and was designed for Federation boards.
It was the first time in eight years Delme has received formal training from the Police Federation of England and Wales for being on the branch council or a board member.
Delme welcomed the training, saying: “This is about professionalising the way Federation boards work.
Branch chair Delme Rees
“The training is for all board members and it recognises that if we are to represent our members effectively, we need the right skills, knowledge and support in place.”
The Birmingham event built on an onboarding session held earlier in the year, where the Federation set out its vision for the future.
The vision included a strong emphasis on joined-up working between local branches and national head office.
And central to that is continual professional development for Fed reps.
Expertise
The training focused on how boards operate day to day, what makes an effective board, and the importance of having the right mix of skills and expertise around the table.
It also covered understanding when to seek additional specialist support to ensure informed and confident decision-making.
“This approach brings real added value to the branch,” Delme said. “It also strengthens cohesion between local branches and the national board.
“I’ve been involved in the Federation for eight years, and this is the first training I’ve had as part of being a council of board member.
“It is part of the professionalisation and forward-thinking of the organisation and is welcome.
“It’s investing in the Federation and in the reps themselves, to maximise the value we deliver to our members.”
READ MORE: Christmas message from branch chair.
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