Christmas and New Year Message from Surrey Police Federation Chair Darren Pemble

Merry Christmas everyone. I hope you are able to find time to be with your loved ones over the festive period.

Policing is a job like no other. We don’t do it for the money — we do it for a whole range of reasons, but ultimately because we want to make a difference and do something worthwhile.

We all know that policing never stops.

Officers deserve our deepest thanks for their dedication, especially those sacrificing time with family to work during the festive period — policing the night-time economy, running drink-drive operations, and responding to the inevitable increase in domestic abuse calls.

The work we do impacts us all.

The challenges we face and the trauma we are exposed to make it even tougher — but let’s not forget that what we do changes people’s lives.

Policing is a family. We must come together with the common goal of looking after each other and the public. Let’s stand side by side and do the best we can over the Christmas holidays.

We have sadly lost colleagues over the past year, and my thoughts are with their families and friends. It is okay not to be okay — and if you need help, please remember that both the Force and the Federation are here for you.

If you haven’t already, I encourage you to download the Stay Alive app, which can provide support in a crisis and signpost you to help. Oscar Kilo also offers a 24/7/365 support line specifically for police officers and staff who are in crisis providing a safe space to talk and receive support from qualified, independent counsellors on 0300 131 2789

Looking back over 2025, it has been another year where policing has been in the headlines.

Time and again, policing has been called upon to respond to difficult and often dangerous situations.

We have also celebrated the courage and professionalism of our colleagues at the PFEW National Bravery Awards where I was privileged to accompany Surrey’s nominee, PC Marissa Barwell, who — alongside her Police Dog Ella — tackled an armed man with a knife.

For the third year running, we held our Surrey Police Federation Recognition Awards, where we were proud to honour officers for their outstanding contribution to policing in Surrey.

As we head into the New Year, let’s continue to support one another, take pride in what we do, and remember the difference we make every single day.

Wishing you all a safe, peaceful, and Merry Christmas — and a Happy New Year.