Pay and Morale Survey 2024 launched: let’s send a strong message

20 September 2024

‘The more people who take part, the stronger the message we send,” chair of Northamptonshire Police Federation Sam Dobbs following the launch of this year’s Pay and Morale Survey.

The annual survey, which is organised by the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW), gives members the chance to have their say on key issues, including pay, morale and welfare.

The results are used by the Federation at both a national and local level, supporting ongoing discussions and campaigns, specifically relating to pay, calling for fairer remuneration for police officers and improving the working environment.

“It is more critical than ever for as many members as possible to take part in this year’s Pay and Morale Survey,” said branch chair Sam.

Issues

“Results from surveys like this give police officers in Northamptonshire a voice. It allows our members to have their say and raise seriously important issues.

“I appreciate you might be asking, ‘what is the point?’ But if you’re wondering how surveys like this help to determine the future of policing - just look at the recent nationwide poll on industrial rights.

“That poll found that 97.7 per cent of participating members would like the Federation to campaign for industrial rights. That result has shaped the Federation’s next move. The Federation’s National Council and National Board will now start to create the campaign for the introduction of a fair and binding pay mechanism.

“To have the influence desired, we need data and we need evidence. And that is why it is absolutely necessary for as many of you as possible to take part in the survey.”

Of the 150 Northamptonshire police officers who took part in last year’s Pay and Morale Survey, just over half (54 per cent) revealed their morale to be currently ‘low’ or ‘very low’.

Additionally, 84 per cent of participants said they are ‘dissatisfied’ or ‘very dissatisfied’ with basic pay and allowances, with 20 per cent ‘almost never’ having enough money to cover all their essentials.

“It’s disappointing that only 10 per cent of our members took part last year - I’m hoping we see an improvement this time round,” Sam continued.

Change

“It’s clear that our members are fed up and frustrated. But, with a new government in charge, this is a real opportunity for the Federation to fight for change.”

In addition, this year’s survey will include three new questions:

● What unique aspects of policing should be considered when police pay is being reviewed?

● Given the recent unrest across the UK, how safe and supported did you feel whilst on duty?

● Does social media have an impact on the way you are able to perform your role?

The survey closes on Monday 28 October.

Members should have received a link to the survey via email. If they have not, then they are advised to contact the Northamptonshire Police Federation office.