During five years as a Federation representative, Dave Hussey has become the person officers across West Mercia seek out when they need knowledgeable, fair and effective support.

As the representative for Herefordshire, Dave has earned the confidence of members through his integrity, professionalism and calm approach. He provides balanced and honest advice, ensuring officers understand the situation they face and are treated with dignity and respect throughout.

His commitment was tested during a particularly challenging period for West Mercia Police Federation when all the branch’s relevant management personnel had left their positions.

With the branch facing considerable uncertainty, Dave was one of only two conduct-trained representatives who stepped forward to manage every misconduct case and associated enquiry.

The demands were substantial, but Dave remained focused on ensuring members continued to receive the representation they needed. His resilience and willingness to accept additional responsibility helped maintain the branch’s service during an exceptionally difficult period.

For officers involved in misconduct proceedings, the uncertainty surrounding their career can place enormous pressure on their wellbeing and family life. Dave recognises this and combines his technical knowledge with empathy, patience and understanding.

He is approachable and accessible, investing the time needed to understand each member’s circumstances. He provides clear advice, remains composed under pressure and ensures officers are directed towards appropriate welfare services when they need additional help.

Dave is equally valued for the relationships he has developed with colleagues across the force. His constructive approach has earned particularly positive feedback from members of the Professional Standards Department.

While he represents officers robustly, Dave understands that effective advocacy can also depend on open communication and professional working relationships. By approaching discussions with respect and clarity, he has helped strengthen cooperation with the department and improve outcomes for members.

His positive attitude and personality make him a valued colleague as well as a highly effective representative. He works collaboratively, supports those around him and maintains his enthusiasm even when dealing with demanding or sensitive cases.

Dave’s influence can also be seen in the people he has encouraged to become involved in the Federation. His passion for representation inspired West Mercia Police Federation’s current chair to take on the role, providing encouragement and support that helped begin their own Federation journey.

Members and colleagues consistently recognise Dave as somebody who goes beyond what is expected. Whether carrying additional cases, offering welfare support or helping strengthen the branch, he approaches every responsibility with reliability and pride.

West Mercia Police Federation’s chair Gareth Spreadbury said: “Dave’s commitment became unmistakable when our branch was at its most stretched. He did not wait for somebody else to take responsibility; he stepped forward, absorbed an immense conduct workload and made sure our members were not left without support.

“He represents officers firmly but constructively, earning respect because he is fair, prepared and always focused on finding the best way forward. Even under pressure, he brings warmth, humour and reassurance to people who may be facing the hardest point of their careers.

“On a personal level, Dave is the reason I became involved in the Federation. His enthusiasm showed me what a representative could achieve, and his encouragement gave me the confidence to take that first step. The strength of his contribution can be seen not only in the members he has helped, but also in the people he has inspired to follow his example.”