Who is WAVES for?

WAVES is designed to support PFEW members who are involved in a matter as a victim or witness. If you are unsure whether your circumstances are covered, contact us rather than trying to work it out alone.

What types of behaviour does WAVES cover?

WAVES supports members affected by unlawful treatment, including criminal acts, misconduct, harassment, discrimination, victimisation and whistleblowing detriment involving police personnel.

Is WAVES confidential?

Confidentiality and safeguarding are at the heart of the WAVES programme. We understand that reaching out for support can be difficult, so we aim to create a safe and supportive environment from the outset.

This means:

• Your information will be handled sensitively and kept secure.
• Clear boundaries will be put in place where individuals involved in the same case are connected.
• Representatives supporting victims or witnesses will never represent an alleged perpetrator in the same case.
• Appropriate safeguarding action may be taken if there are concerns about someone's safety, wellbeing or risk of victimisation.

If you have any concerns about confidentiality or how the scheme operates, please speak to the WAVES team, who will be happy to explain the process.

What if the other person is also a Federation member?

WAVES support for a victim or witness is kept appropriately separate from representation provided to an accused member. PFEW remains committed to fair representation while ensuring victims and witnesses can access appropriate support.

Does the programme investigate complaints?

No. WAVES does not investigate incidents or replace formal complaint or criminal processes.

Can witnesses be supported even if they have not yet given evidence?

Yes. Witnesses can receive support before, during and after providing evidence.

What if I am not sure whether I count as a victim or witness?

Get in touch. You do not need to determine that on your own before asking what support is available.

What if a witness later becomes a victim?

Each individual is assessed based on their circumstances at the time. Support can adapt as a case develops.

Can my identity be protected if I share my experience as a case study?

Case-study participation is separate from receiving WAVES support. Where a member chooses to share their experience, communications options can include anonymisation, indirect filming and voiceover, subject to an agreed consent process.

How do I become a WAVES Rep?

WAVES Reps need a good grounding in conduct and performance matters, as some of the issues they support members with may also arise through conduct or performance processes.

If you have previously completed the Conduct and Performance course and have relevant experience representing members, your Branch Secretary can confirm they are satisfied you have the necessary Representing Members competencies.

If you have little or no previous conduct training or experience, you will need to complete, as a minimum:

• Conduct Essentials (e-learning)
• Performance UPP (online)

Reps should also complete:

• Representing Members in Misconduct Cases
• Equality Practitioners Part 1 (e-learning)
• Equality Practitioners Part 2
• Experience representing members across a range of conduct cases

Ideally, the relevant training should be completed before attending the WAVES course, as it provides important background knowledge that will help you get the most from the training. However, where course availability means some training falls after your WAVES course date, the outstanding training can be completed afterwards.

Courses can be booked via the PFEW Course Catalogue or by contacting L&D@polfed.org for advice or assistance with booking.