Federation Encourages Colleagues To Give Blood

24 February 2026

Leicestershire Police Federation, along with the Group Insurance Scheme and Medical Scheme, attended a UK Blood Drive last week to encourage officers and staff members to donate blood.

At the event, held at force HQ on 18 February, people signed up to see if they were eligible to donate blood. The Federation was inspired by the experience of serving Leicestershire officer Deb Hubbard, who is recovering from leukaemia.

Leicestershire Police Federation Secretary Joe Lloyd and Schemes Manager Becky Simons were honoured to attend the event and it was great to see dozens of officers and police staff tested.

They also highlighted schemes that support police officers and staff in the event of illness or injury.

The Federation, the Group Insurance Scheme and the Medical Scheme also made donations to the charities Leukaemia Care and Blood Cancer UK.

Joe said: “Becky and I were keen to support these two charities and we also wanted to draw attention to the schemes we provide for both police officers and members of staff.

“Our schemes offer financial assistance, but also the opportunity to seek counselling that is separate from the force. I was pleased to see members of staff considering joining our schemes, and we will work with Unison to ensure staff members are more aware of what is on offer to them. I am keen for more police officers to sign up as well – for what is a small cost, the benefits on offer are superb.”

He added: “We have supported Deb throughout her treatment, and she values what the Group Insurance Scheme has done for her.”

Deb said: “I’ve been a member of the Group Insurance Scheme throughout my whole service, and have previously only used it for travel insurance. However, over the last few years it has proved invaluable in helping us to settle a legal claim against our previous property owners and more recently for critical illness and hospitalisation benefit.

“My family and I have benefited enormously from the financial assistance and support the scheme has provided. You never know when you’re going to need support, and having the scheme in times of need provides reassurance and peace of mind.”

If you would like to donate to the charities, please visit www.leukaemiacare.org.uk or www.bloodcancer.org.uk

Visit polfed.org/leics to find out more about what the Federation can offer and to sign up to the Group Insurance Scheme and Medical Scheme.