The Police Federation has delivered a clear warning to the Government. A minimum 7 per cent annual pay rise for the next three years is essential to stop the loss of experience that is leaving communities exposed and forces overstretched.
Alongside pay, the Federation is challenging proposals by the National Police Chiefs’ Council that would weaken cancelled rest day protections. Learn more about our new Hands Off Our Rest Days campaign, highlighting a system that aims to normalise fatigue. Officers are exhausted, morale is falling, and resignations are rising, yet forces continue to rely on recovery time to plug gaps.
Our investigation into missing data on officers’ working time regulations reinforces that concern. Most forces still do not track the hours their officers are working. Without basic information, leaders cannot claim to be safeguarding wellbeing. The Federation describes the situation as dangerous, unlawful and indefensible.
This edition also celebrates resilience. Dorset’s Sergeant of the Year, Karen Brown, reflects on calm leadership in crisis and the mindset that has sustained her through more than 26 years of service. We also examine new research into hearing risks linked to police radio earpieces and the urgent need for better protection.
Culture change features strongly too. Inspector Liz Perry shares how representation and visibility have shaped her careerand helped shift the landscape for women in policing. In our Reps Spotlight, PC Benjamin Hayes represents a new generation of Federation reps focused on practical support and meaningful change.
We look back at sixty years since the abolition of the death penalty and explore how that decision reshaped policing and public values. Former South Wales detective Steve Dodd offers a white paper perspective on neighbourhood policing and why local connection remains central to trust.
One of the most powerful stories in this edition follows former Met sergeant Jonathan Kemp on his 296-day, 4,000-kilometre mental health trek across the UK and Ireland, a journey built on honesty, endurance and hope.
Finally, we preview the Police Rugby 4 Nations Finals, where England and Ireland prepare for a winner takes all clash that celebrates solidarity and shared identity across the service.
