Christmas and New Year Message from Norfolk Police Federation Chair Andy Symonds

23 December 2025

As we approach the festive season, I want to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for your hard work, dedication, and professionalism throughout the year.

Policing is tough and even more so over this last year.

The summer brought further challenges and demands, but your commitment to keeping our communities safe has been outstanding.

The demand of the summer was like no other I’ve seen, with the wave of weekly protests in the county and everyone leaning in to help police the county.

From response officers turning out at every call for help not knowing what to expect when they arrive will it be traumatic, will it be dangerous, will it be possible to deal with it with the numbers we have.

To the detectives working with large caseloads, burdens of redactions, associated demands from CPS and that word ATHENA – coupled with lots of risk attached to them to manage and mitigate.

Policing is demanding, tough and it takes it toll. If you need support over the festive period or any period, please reach out – you are never alone.

Our members that are supervisors/managers I ask that you look out for your team, make sure you count them out and in, take the time to check on them, get them a cuppa and have that chat – small things make the world of difference.

Christmas and New Year can be a time of joy, but for many of us, it also means working long hours and missing precious moments with family and friends.

Please know that your efforts do not go unnoticed. The Federation is here to support you, and we remain committed to you, our members. There will be 24/7 on call cover from the Federation over the Christmas and New Year period to support our members when and where required.

As we look ahead to 2026, we must continue to stand together, ensuring your voice is heard and your wellbeing remains a priority.

On behalf of the Norfolk Police Federation, I wish you and your loved ones a safe, peaceful, and happy Christmas, and a healthy and successful New Year.

Stay safe and look after each other.

Thank you for everything you do – you are the beating heart of policing in Norfolk.