Federation elections: get involved, be a candidate, cast your vote

18 December 2024

Members are being urged to get involved in the forthcoming Federation elections either by putting themselves forward as a potential workplace representative or just by ensuring they vote at the various relevant stages.

Nottinghamshire Police Federation chair Simon Riley says it’s incredibly important that members help shape the future of their representative body by engaging in the elections.

“The Police Federation exists to represent the views of the membership, to negotiate on their behalf and to seek to influence key decision-makers in policing, locally, regionally and nationally,” says Simon.

“It is therefore incredibly important that we have the right people in representative roles at all levels – within the Force, in the region and at the national office.

“Of course, locally, workplace representatives provide that first line of critical support to members in need, often seeing them through some of the most difficult times of their careers so again we need to make sure we have the people best suited to that role in those positions.

“I would urge all members to take an interest in the Federation elections. They are quite long-drawn-out, starting at the end of this month and not coming to a close until October next year, but members will receive updates by email, explaining the processes and the key dates when they can get involved and, of course, we will provide updates through our usual communications channels.”

Election process

The nationwide election process starts on 30 December when nominations open for workplace representatives. The Force’s constables, sergeants and inspecting ranks, as well as Specials, can stand in the local workplace representative elections, with successful candidates being given the opportunity to represent, support and negotiate on key issues for their colleagues. 

Nominations close on 24 January 2025 with voting taking place between 3 and 23 February. The results will be announced on 27 February.

Information, including how to self-nominate and how to vote, will be emailed to all members. 

Successful candidates automatically become part of their local Branch Council. From the Branch Council, an executive - the Branch Board - is elected, including a chair, secretary and treasurer. Other lead roles include equality, health and safety, and conduct and performance. Local reps also have the chance to put themselves forward for the national body whenever opportunities arise. 

Representative

If you want to find out more about becoming a representative, contact your local workplace representative or the Federation office.

Find out more about the role of a workplace representative.

  The election 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 remaining principal officers.

READ MORE: Successful meeting between Federation and MPs.