Get to know your Federation reps: Mike Pereira

2 September 2021

Temporary Detective Chief Inspector Mike Pereira says it’s “a privilege and a huge responsibility” to work for colleagues as a Suffolk Police Federation rep.

Mike, who has been a rep since 2019, says he draws on his own experiences to help and support officers in his role.

“I wanted to enter into a role where I could support officers through difficult times while ensuring I did all I could to see that they were treated equally and fairly,” he said.

“I like to think I bring a diverse perspective both in terms of my ethnic background but also in terms of my life experiences so far.

“I have faced challenges in my career and I am able to share these through supporting others to provide context and to be able to empathise.

“I enjoy the responsibility and trust of the position. We are often called to support people in the most difficult circumstances of their career which is both a privilege and a huge responsibility at the same time.

“The balance between providing the best possible advice and support to the officer while recognising that being a Fed rep is a voluntary role and on top of all the other commitments of your day job is a challenge,” he added.

Mike’s special area of interest is diversity, equality and inclusion. He is a member of the National Federation’s race, religion and belief group and contributes towards improving the diversity of Federation reps across the country.

“My priorities are to support officers to the best of my ability as a rep and to strive for equal and fair treatment for all,” he said.

And he encouraged other officers to consider putting themselves forward to become reps.

“You learn a lot,” Mike said, “You are well supported and can make a real difference to your colleagues’ lives.”

However, he said that the limited number of full-time roles was a challenge for the Federation.

“I have seen forces of equivalent size with more full-time positions which mean that more dedicated energy can be driven into Federation matters,” he said.

Mike joined the Force in 2006 and his first posting was to Ipswich Neighbourhood Response Team.

“Five years working in CT was the most fascinating, exciting and rewarding time of my career so far,” he explained.

He said there are a number of challenges facing policing, including the increasing levels of scrutiny.

“I think working in the policing is demanding and rewarding in equal measure,” he said, “But it’s increasingly under pressure to perform and scrutiny from external bodies.

“While we have an expectation to be held accountable to the community we serve, there is a point where constant scrutiny and criticism start to erode morale.”

Mike added: “A challenge for the Force is the fact that we remain one of the lowest funded police forces nationally and that the organisation has to make very difficult decisions with the budget it is given.

“And, for our officers and staff, it’s maintaining a healthy work-life balance and ensuring their health and wellbeing remains a priority throughout their service.”