Fed elections: voting closes on Sunday

20 February 2025

Federation members have until Sunday to help decide the future of the branch and vote in its workplace representative election.

Information on the election period has been sent out to all members in recent weeks – including on how to vote – with most Police Federation branches across England and Wales currently holding processes to determine workplace reps going forward.

Voting is open via an online portal and closes on Sunday 23 February. Results are set to be announced on Thursday 27 February.

Branch chair Rob Bowles has reminded members of the importance of workplace representatives and encouraged them to use their voice.

“As a Federation member, it is crucial you make your vote count at every opportunity, and that certainly includes this election,” Rob said.

“Workplace representatives are so often the people closest to your views, carrying these views forward so the branch knows how it can best work for you and what you want to see happen.

“I’d like to urge members who haven’t already to take some time to learn more about the candidates standing for election and choose whoever you feel will represent you best – there is no right or wrong answer.

“And then the final step is to use your vote. Voting instructions are easy to follow and have been emailed out to everyone, so please make sure you get involved before the deadline next week.”

Following confirmation of voting results, successfully elected reps will form North Yorkshire Police Federation’s new Branch Council, where they can then go on to the likes of the Branch Board and regional and national Federation positions.

Voting – frequently asked questions 

Q. Who can vote? 

A. Any member can vote as long as they were a member of the Federation two months before nominations opened. Nominations opened on 30 December, so they will need to have been a member on 30 October 2024. 

Q. How do I vote? 

A. Voting will be online during the voting period – a link is provided to all members. 

Q. How will the Branch Council election results be announced? 

A. Once the voting period closes, candidates will be informed via email if they have been successful. Branches will also receive an electronic copy of the results, as will the national general secretary, who is the arbiter of the election process.

The elections process

Members vote for workplace reps (Branch Council)

The Branch Council votes for the Branch Board members

Members elect the local branch chair 

The Branch Board elects the local branch secretary 

The chairs and secretaries from branches across England and Wales make up the National Council 

The National Council votes to elect the National Board 

All members vote to elect the national chair 

The National Board selects the general secretary 

The National Board votes in the remaining principal officers.

Key upcoming dates in the Federation elections

Branch Boards

17 March – Nominations open

6 April – Nominations close

14 to 28 April – Voting takes place

30 April – Results are announced

Branch chairs

2 May – Nominations open

9 May – Nominations close

13 to 27 May – Voting takes place

28 May – Results are announced

1 June – Branch chair and other officials take office

READ MORE: New guide to help you with police regs.