From chair Luke Mitchell...

On behalf of the Hertfordshire Police Federation, I would like to extend my sincere thanks and best wishes to all our members and their families as we approach the festive season. 

Christmas is a time that many people look forward to as an opportunity to slow down, spend time with loved ones, and reflect on the year that has passed.

However, we recognise that Christmas is not always easy in policing. For many of our members, the festive period will be spent on duty - protecting our communities, responding to incidents, and ensuring public safety - rather than at home with family and friends.

Working long shifts, unsociable hours, and missing out on precious family moments are significant sacrifices. These commitments do not go unnoticed and are deeply appreciated by the vast majority of the people we serve.

I want to personally thank each and every one of you for your continued dedication, professionalism, and resilience throughout what has often been another challenging year.

I hope that, wherever possible, you are able to find some time for yourselves over the festive period.

Patience

Taking time to rest, recharge, and step away from the pressures of work is vitally important. Please look after yourselves and continue to look out for one another, as Christmas can be a particularly difficult time for some.

My thanks also extend to your families and loved ones, whose patience, understanding, and support sit quietly behind every shift you work. Their sacrifices are an essential part of the service you provide, and they deserve recognition, too.

Finally, I want to reassure you that your Federation representatives will remain on call and on duty throughout Christmas, New Year, and beyond. Should you need support, advice, or representation at any point, please remember that we are here for you.

Thank you once again for everything you do. I wish you a safe, restful, and well-deserved Christmas and a positive New Year.