Helping our colleagues get ready for firearms' fitness

19 December 2023

Sussex Police Federation recently provided some money to support firearms colleagues in breaking down barriers for some that may not find it easy to reach the starting line for their careers on Firearms in relation to their fitness.

As part of the TFU inclusivity working group it has been identified that a barrier preventing officers applying to specialist roles such as firearms, is the requirement for an enhanced level of fitness. 

To address this concern the department, recognising that peer support is a key element to reaching and maintaining these standards, want to support a fitness and wellbeing focused culture. 

To achieve this, selected officers across Surrey and Sussex firearms bases will be undertaking a level two PT gym instruction qualification to assist perspective and existing firearms officers within a gym environment to achieve their exercise and fitness goals. 

Assisting with this barrier will not only help take away the burden and anxiety associated with the required annual JRFT but will support officers in their general wellbeing and help prevent job related musculoskeletal issues. The hope for the future is that this assistance will open opportunities for those who may be worried about the physical requirements of the role.

TFU have provided a good financial budget to start this project and already enrolled several officers on the course however, to get the most effective impact across all three bases, Gatwick, Lewes and Burpham, the Federation have very kindly awarded the project a sum of £500 which will assist in funding a further five officers to complete the course. 

This type of support from the Federation not only has an impact from a financial perspective but displays the type of culture and wellbeing support that is so important for officers in conducting their professional roles and maintaining their own personal health outside of work.

PC Roxanne Carpenter said: "It is a pleasure to support this project and allow all officers the opportunity to break down barriers that would otherwise prevent them entering this aspect of policing."

Pictured presenting the money is our Chair elect Raff Cioffi.