We are here for you

11 January 2022

As a new year gets underway, I don’t think there is much doubt that policing will continue to face some very tough challenges in the coming 12 months but, as your Police Federation, we will be alongside you every step of the way.

One of our key priorities for 2022 will be keeping officer health and welfare at the very top of the agenda. It has always been something we have taken extremely seriously and the last two years have highlighted the importance of looking after your emotional health as well as your physical wellbeing.

The Police Federation is always there for members in need of support and there is absolutely no reason for anyone who has concerns about themselves or about a colleague to hesitate in coming to speak to us or giving us a call. We have a wide range of services available for anyone who thinks they might be struggling and we will be with you all the way.

It should come as no real surprise to hear that worries over pay and pensions are among the main causes of low officer morale which, in turn, can have a negative impact on our mental health.

So, as usual, the Police Federation will be working hard to ensure its members are fairly treated and receive the best possible pay offer this year, especially after the scandal of last year’s pay freeze which led to a vote of no confidence in the Home Secretary and the end of the Federation’s relationship with the supposedly independent pay review body.

We think it is high time the Government properly recognised the critical role police officers play and a great way to start to repair the damaged relationship between politicians and policing would be the  introduction of a well-thought out, fair and sustainable system of remuneration.

I don’t know any officers who joined the service to get rich but equally no one expects to be disrespected and taken for granted when it comes to pay and conditions. 

Our members serve with courage, determination and professionalism and deserve to be properly rewarded for their efforts, the challenges they face and the sacrifices they make. 

The Police Federation will be making this crystal clear throughout the coming months. We are determined to make sure your voices are heard.

I will close by once again wishing you and your loved ones a peaceful and prosperous 2022 and remind you that your Police Federation is there for you. 

Keep in touch, stay safe and see you soon.