Norfolk Police Federation comments on new PCC

20 July 2026

On behalf of Norfolk Police Federation, I would like to congratulate Colin Sutton on his election as Norfolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner, writes Chair Andy Symonds.

Colin brings with him a wealth of policing experience and an understanding of the challenges faced by officers on a daily basis. He served as a Detective Chief Inspector within the Metropolitan Police. We look forward to working constructively with him in the months and years ahead for the benefit of the officers we represent and, ultimately, the communities they serve.

Our members perform an extraordinary role every day, often in difficult and demanding circumstances, and it is vital that they have a strong voice around the decision-making table. Norfolk Police Federation will continue to be that voice, championing the interests, welfare and professional development of our members.

One of the first issues requiring urgent attention is police pay, following the Government's decision not to fully implement the recommendations of the independent Police Remuneration Review Body (PRRB).

The PRRB recommended a 3.9% consolidated pay increase for officers, but the Government instead awarded 3.5% from September 2026. I want to understand Mr Suttons and Reforms position on this matter. And will be seeking his support to call on the Government to change their decision and to change the way police pay is decided.

While any pay increase is welcome, the Government's decision to reject the full recommendation of the independent Police Remuneration Review Body sends a message to officers that the Government simply changes the rules if they don’t like the result.

You only have to look at parts of the PPRB report to perhaps see why the Government did not like the PPRB report. The report carries forward many of the arguments the Federation made in evidence. It says policing cannot continue to rely on officers' goodwill and personal sacrifice.

It describes the routine use of cancelled rest days, short-notice duties and disrupted leave as "exploitative". It says pay must be competitive to recruit and retain experienced officers and warns that simply filling vacancies is not the same as having a healthy workforce.

Police officers continue to face increasing demands, significant operational pressures, and ongoing cost-of-living challenges. Independent pay review bodies exist to provide evidence-based recommendations, and when those recommendations are not fully implemented it undermines confidence in the process and this is why officers have lost all faith in the process that decides their pay and conditions. Fair pay is not simply about recruitment and retention; it is about recognising the professionalism, dedication and sacrifice shown by officers every single day.

Pay and conditions is one of the many items on the agenda for when I meet the PCC. Seeking his support and office to raise these vitally important matters directly with Government. Alongside the wider challenges facing policing in Norfolk, to ensure that our officers receive the welfare support, resources, and recognition they deserve.