Statement from Sussex Police Federation Chair Raffaele Cioffi following the announcement of General Election on 4 July.

23 May 2024

The next Government needs to introduce meaningful changes to improve the pay and conditions of police officers, Sussex Police Federation has said.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak yesterday announced a General Election, with voters heading to the polls to elect a Government on 4 July.

And Sussex Police Federation Chair Raffaele Cioffi has called for whoever forms the next Government to introduce an independent pay review body.

He said: “Elections are coming, and we will now see political parties scramble for votes, but what does this mean for members?

“As with every election period we hope for improvement to our lives as police officers. I urge the next Government to take a close look at the Office of Constable before we reach a point of irreversible damage.

“What I would ask for is meaningful change rather than false promises. Our members need an independent pay review body that can implement pay awards; accurate resourcing to deal with demand; and true support for those that suffer ill-health from the work they do.

“This is merely a starting point. The political parties should commit to change and place policing in their manifestos.

“For our local MPs and parliamentary candidates, my members want to speak to you. The cancelled appointments have been noticed and my members deserve an audience.”