‘As reps, we need to continue learning’

3 February 2022

A Federation representative who has recently completed an equality course says that the extra training means she feels she is in a better position to help support members.

Laura Parker, who has been a rep for around five years now, says that she took part in the course because she wanted to upskill and develop her position within the Federation.

She says building her knowledge over the five-day course has given her the confidence to answer questions thoroughly that she may be asked by members.

“I always embrace the opportunity to improve my knowledge, I  constantly aspire to be a better police officer and representative,” says Laura, who joined the police nearly 13 years ago.

Laura explained that while the values of the police remain the same, the Force is forever changing.

“As reps, we need to continue learning, this is so the Federation reflects the changes felt by police officers suitably advising members on topics that matter to them. Equality, professional development and 0perational issues are some of the most frequently queried questions,” she added.

“Ultimately, welfare and support are key. Having the Federation there means members know they have someone to talk to, a department they can trust to get independent advice.

“My mission is to support people as best as I possibly can while meeting the needs of the constabulary.”

Laura completed the equality course just before Christmas and hopes to develop her role as a rep moving forward.