Chair recognises impact of subs increase

19 May 2022

Even a small increase in subscriptions could have an impact on Federation members who are already struggling to make ends meet, says the chair of Suffolk Police Federation.

But Darren Harris said it was critically important that the Federation has the resources to continue to provide a wide range of essential support and services for members.

“Ultimately, I think we have to remember that the Federation is a business and, as such, like so many other organisations and individuals, it has been hit by a rise in running costs and inflation,” says Darren.

“Between 2010 and 2019 we have not increased subs, instead we have used our reserves to meet the extra demand. These reserves are now at a level that this is not an option so a small increase in subs is required to meet the inflation-related costs and will help the financial security of the Federation.

“But it is definitely not lost on us that even a small increase could have an impact on our members, particularly those who are already facing financial difficulties.

“I would also like to remind all members that we can help them get professional help and support if they have money worries. I think the stigma around talking about mental wellbeing has started to lift but we are aware that people do find it difficult to talk about financial issues. Please do not worry about getting in touch, we can help members access help and advice.”

After a conference motion put forward the subs increase at conference yesterday, a Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) statement was issued.

It said: “With the current cost of living crisis, last year’s pay freeze and without knowing if our members will receive an increase in their pay this year or not, now is not the time to increase Police Federation of England and Wales subscriptions.

“PFEW, however, is also facing increased costs. Soaring inflation, upcoming litigation and the financial health of our National Reserves Fund means we need to at least start to have an open and honest conversation on this subject with Federation representatives to make sure that there is a strong, viable Federation fighting for our members for years to come.”

The Federation said the conference gave the perfect opportunity to open the conversation surrounding subscription rates, which have only increased once in the last decade.

The statement continued: “On such an important issue, PFEW took the view conference delegates should be given the opportunity to hear the rationale for any proposed future increase in subscriptions immediately.

“We care passionately about the views of our members which is why hearing from delegates at conference – their representatives – on this matter was vital. On that basis, it was agreed to bring a motion to conference this year for discussion.”

The conference motion looked at future options for an increase in subscriptions on the basis that it would only be introduced once it has been confirmed by the Government that members will receive a pay increase.

As a result of the motion, the conference supported increasing the rate of all types of Federation subscriptions effective from 1 September 2022, in line with the percentage uplift to police pay for 2022/2023.