Sussex Police Federation Chair reacts to escalating numbers of police assaults – and how officers are not properly rewarded for the danger they face

1 August 2024

There were 45,907 assaults on police officers in England & Wales last financial year.

That’s 5,500+ more than last year and a staggering 20,000 more assaults on your police officers than there were in 2017.

In Sussex Police 1,527 officers were assaulted on duty last year.  

Raffaele Cioffi, Chair of Sussex Police Federation said: “The assault data for this year is not surprising. Across the country, our colleagues are facing unrest and are subjected to appalling behaviour.

“In the line of duty, these members are suffering assaults and injuries while working to restore peace. The images on the news of officers standing before unruly mobs, which aim to divide our country, show them placing themselves at significant risk.

“These officers have families who want their loved ones to come home safely. They do not deserve the cruel and violent behaviour directed towards them.

“Assaults on officers are sadly very common here in Sussex. We have recorded 1,527 assaults on our members, some of the highest figures in the country in proportion to the number of officers we have.

“Several factors contribute to why officers are being assaulted in such high volumes. The most common denominator is that our members now feel vulnerable to the scrutiny placed on them.

“You expect your constables in the UK to police by consent, but when the public does not consent and chooses to ignore the law, our options are limited. Some officers are choosing to be assaulted over using force as they fear the allegations that might follow. Members, you are not punch bags and deserve better from the public.

“The Government has this week awarded us a 4.75% pay rise. I noted that we were toward the bottom of the public sector list, and I hope this isn’t a reflection of the Government’s priorities. The Government honours us with medals of bravery and commendations, but they truly need to recognize the sacrifices our members make.

“The physical and mental sacrifices are countless, and our unique position in society must be acknowledged.

“Members have voiced their need for industrial rights (collective bargaining). Junior doctors have shown us the value of leverage with their 22% pay rise. Our members are being spat at, punched, kicked, and hit by vehicles, yet we are subjected to a 17% real-terms pay cut. It’s time to bridge the gap once and for all and show respect to our members.”