Meet PC Dan Smith - One of Kent Police Federation's new Reps

15 November 2021

Q. Can you give us a brief summary of your career history and your current rank and role?
A. I have been a serving frontline Police Officer for 18 years. I worked LPT at Swale for 14 and a half years of that service which I enjoyed immensely. I then moved to the Roads Policing Unit where I have been for 3 and half years and absolutely love my role. In the last three years I have become a TRiM Practioner and Now the Tac Ops Federation Rep.

Q. What made you want to be a Fed Rep?
A. Over the last few years I have noticed during our recruitment campaigns that new officers joining are of a young age. I want to be able to use my experience and my new training as a Federation Rep to protect those that need it and help and support where I can.

Q. Why do you think it’s important for members to be supported by fellow officers as their Reps?
A. I believe that if you get into a situation where you need a Federation Representative to support you, that having a fellow officer to represent you instils an element of confidence, trust and empathy to the situation that you are in.

Q. Which areas in particular are you looking forward to focusing on?
A. My aim is to specialise in Misconduct proceedings and help support officers in times of need.

Q. What should members do if they’re concerned about anything?
A. If any members are concerned about anything they should contact their local Federation Representative or the Kent Police Federation Office. We are always happy to help and there should be a Federation Rep on duty at all time.

Q. What would you say to colleagues who might wonder where their subs go?
A. I am sure there are many rumours or conspiracies surrounding what Federation subs are spent on… I can assure my colleagues that their Subs are spent wisely and under much scrutiny. Funds are used to support officers with legal costs during those times where they need that help. If anyone knows any officers that do not pay into the Police Federation – Please advise them to re-consider. There are so many benefits.