Police Pension Discrimination Claim - Statement from Branch Chair and Secretary

9 June 2023

Police Pension Discrimination claim

We wish to respond locally, so far as we can, on the challenging judgment in the police pension discrimination claim, published this week and the ruling of the Judge in relation to the National Police Federation of England & Wales (PFEW) at the time in question.

We share the angry and dismayed feeling of the rank-and-file colleagues (including current Federation representatives) affected here and across the country who also feel badly let down and misled. Be assured that these feelings have been communicated to the current national leaders of PFEW on behalf of the Northamptonshire Branch in various meetings in the past two days.

Whilst we continue to digest the findings, alongside all the Branches and the national Board, we acknowledge the breadth and width of police officers affected by being provided, some years ago, with what we now know was misleading information from PFEW. Despite the timescales, as the currently elected local PFEW representatives, we will continue to exercise whatever influence we have in this unprecedented situation and we assure you that we have been consulted and listened to in the national discussions following the ruling. These are continuing.

In an already challenging policing context, we will also continue to represent, influence and negotiate for our 1400+ members in Northamptonshire on the issues that affect them as they do a difficult job in the county. This will now include the legacy and learning from this ruling and inevitably making changes to ensure PFEW stands up effectively for our members so we remain the undisputed voice of policing, locally and nationally. This matter has been so divisive and contentious for so long and we recognise, with sadness and due humility, the reconciliation which will be required far beyond the precincts of the court.

SGT SAM DOBBS                                                  SGT CHARLOTTE PATEMAN

Chair                                                                          Secretary

Northamptonshire Police Federation               Northamptonshire Police Federation