Elena Boafo wins the Services To Women Award
11 December 2024
The Federation’s first-ever Equality and Wellbeing Lead has won the Services To Women Award at the Surrey Police Federation Recognition Awards.
Elena Boafo has been described as “a trailblazer” in the arena of gender equality in policing. She is dedicated to challenging discrimination within Surrey Police and has shaped and moulded her role into a powerful force for change.
Her commitment is evident not only in her day-to-day advocacy for Federation members, but also in her willingness to take legal action when necessary. Many in the force have witnessed Elena’s support of women who have been let down. She aims to empower these women to pursue justice and hold the organisation accountable.
A colleague said: “Elena’s actions have led to tangible and lasting change within Surrey Police. By fearlessly confronting discrimination, she has set a precedent that such behaviour will not be tolerated, creating a safer and more equitable workplace for everyone.
“Her willingness to take legal action where necessary has not only resulted in justice for those affected, but has also served as a powerful deterrent against future discriminatory practices.
“Elena’s support for women in the force has also had a ripple effect, inspiring confidence and resilience in those who might have otherwise felt powerless. Her efforts have not only resolved individual cases but have also contributed to a broader cultural shift within the force, where gender equality is increasingly recognised as a priority.”
Elena – a PC in the force - said she was “a bit shocked” when she heard she’d won an Award, but described it as “a great honour”.
She said: “It’s really lovely to receive this, and I hope it highlights everything that the Federation can do for women in the service.
“People often think the Federation is just here to offer legal funding when you’re accused of misconduct, but actually we’re here for the entire membership and we can support people in all types of different things.
“The main thing at the moment is about sexual harassment in the workplace and looking at it via the lens of the Equality Act instead of just criminal and conduct. I think we have been able to assist women more and more, and also give them more protection for the future.”
Surrey Police Federation Chair Darren Pemble said: “Elena’s work has fostered a more supportive environment, encouraging dialogue and empowering women to speak out against injustices. This cultural shift is a direct result of her dedication to changing mindsets and advancing gender equality within the organisation.
“Her courage and relentless pursuit of justice have empowered countless women within the force, and her efforts deserve to be recognised. She is not only a leader in her role, but a true champion for women in policing.”
Elena will attend the Surrey Police Federation Recognition Awards on Thursday 12 December.
The lead sponsor for the Awards is Axon.
Also sponsoring are Uniform Mortgages, Serve & Protect Credit Union, Flint House, Police Mortgages, No1 Copperpot Credit Union, Niche, No5 Chambers, Accord, Douglas Rowe Financial, Police Mutual, National Police Healthcare Scheme, The Surrey PCC and Metfriendly.
