Our latest POLICE magazine is out today, putting a special spotlight on the Police Federation Bravery Awards 2026, sponsored by Police Mutual, - celebrating the extraordinary courage of more than 100 officers from 39 forces across England and Wales. For over three decades, these awards have recognised those who run towards danger to protect others, embodying the very best of policing.

Alongside this special feature, the issue explores the wider realities facing officers today and much more:

A Service Under Unsustainable Pressure. The Rest Day Crisis.

Forces across England and Wales owe officers a staggering 820,000 rest days - a stark reflection of the growing demands on policing. Now, the Police Federation’s Hands Off Our Rest Days campaign, part of the wider Copped Enough movement, is shining a spotlight on the issue and driving a renewed call to put officer welfare firmly back on the agenda. In the Federation’s response to the Health and Safety Executive’s consultation on RIDDOR, it argues policing’s greatest risks are no longer adequately captured by traditional definitions of workplace harm.

 

Tackling Racism Against Officers

The Police Federation is calling for tougher action to tackle racist abuse directed at officers, as new figures reveal the true scale of hate crime against police staff may be significantly underreported. The campaign launched by Humberside Police Federation highlights the urgent need for stronger protections - and greater accountability for those responsible.

 

Outdated Family Leave Policies

Paternity leave in policing is falling behind, with officers highlighting outdated and inconsistent arrangements that fail to reflect modern family life. While other sectors move forward with improved rights, the Police Federation is pushing for change - including day one entitlement to full pay for family leave - to ensure officers and their families get the support they deserve.

 

Welfare, Reform and the Role of Chaplaincy

At the Police Chaplaincy Training Conference, PFEW National Chair Tiff Lynch brought into sharp focus the growing pressures facing frontline officers, calling for urgent reform across policing. Her message also highlighted the crucial role chaplaincy plays in supporting officer wellbeing - and the wider policing family - during increasingly challenging times.

 

Debating Stop and Search

Guest columnist Steve Dodd, former South Wales Police detective constable, explores the complexities of Stop and Search. The piece examines its role within neighbourhood policing and the balance between effectiveness and community trust.

 

Behind the Badge: Federation Voices

• A look at “A Week in the Life of a Fed Rep” with Hertfordshire’s James Stopford, offering insight into the realities of Federation work.
• In Reps Spotlight, Bedfordshire’s Emma Carter celebrates 30 years of service and 20 years of representation.

 

From Then to Now: Police Aviation

A look back at how police aviation evolved from improvised beginnings to a high-tech national capability. Today, it remains a critical tool supporting officers from the skies.

 

Legal Insight: Navigating Claims

Understanding your legal options is crucial. Legal expert David Miers highlights the importance of choosing the right route - Employment Tribunal or County Court -stressing that getting it right from the start is essential before submitting a claim via Form ET1.

 

Police Unity Tour 2026

Returning for its 14th year, the Police Unity Tour continues to bring together the policing family in a powerful show of unity, honouring officers who have died in the line of duty while supporting the loved ones they leave behind. Open to both in-person and virtual participation, it remains one of the most symbolic and meaningful events in the policing calendar.