Federation’s virtual conference starts today

9 June 2021

The Police Federation’s virtual annual national conference starts today and Suffolk Police Federation chair Darren Harris says it’s a chance for delegates to engage with leading figures in policing.

Policing Under Pressure is the theme of the conference, which is being held online for the first time because of the pandemic.

Facilitated by TV and radio presenter Ian Collins, the two-day conference will examine the issues that matter to rank and file officers.

Darren said: “Our conference is an opportunity for members to come together and discuss the policing issues that matter to them.

“It’s a chance to hear from Government ministers, police chiefs and key decision-makers on those issues.

“The fact that it’s taking place online this year I hope will allow more members to be involved than would have been able to physically attend.”

Day 1 highlights include a discussion on Policing Under Pressure with policing minister Kit Malthouse; shadow policing minister Sarah Jones; Martin Hewitt, the chair of the National Police Chiefs’ Council, and Sir Thomas Winsor, HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary.

TV presenter Mark Durden-Smith will speak to some of the nominees for the Police Bravery Awards, there’s an update on pay, conditions and pensions facilitated by former political spin doctor and recent Good Morning Britain host Alastair Campbell, and national Federation chair John Apter will make a keynote speech alongside a senior Cabinet minister.

Day 2 highlights include discussions on trial by media, policing protests and wellbeing as well as understanding misogyny in policing, investing in the investigators and recruitment during the pandemic.