Sussex Police Federation recognises hard working workplace Reps

2 January 2024

Sussex Police Federation was this year delighted to recognise the hard work of our Federation Representatives who are out there looking after our colleagues each and every day.

It's an often thankless task - on top of an already tough day job - so it was an absolute privilege to thank them all - and recognise some of them for their outstanding work in 2023.

Our thanks to our sponsors of the event Mountford Chambers, MJR Solicitors, GBJ Solicitors, Number1 CopperPot, Hempsons and DAC Beachcroft.

Winning Rep of the Year at the event was Pete Searle.  

Pete is one of the longest serving Federation Reps and covers the full range of all Rep responsibilities. Whether that is looking after equality issues, assisting with conduct and performance matters or supporting with anything and everything else!  

His workload is very often significant, not just in terms of volume but complexity.  

To date, nearly 100 members have benefitted from Pete's skill, empathy and expertise.  

However, this still never stops them offering to help members, other Reps, or the branch office whenever needed. He an exceptional Rep which we were delighted to recognise.

Congratulations Pete!

Winning our West Constituency Rep of the Year was Carrieanne O Connor.

Carrieanne’s enthusiasm to assist others shines out like a beacon.  She supports her colleagues during incredibly stressful times in their careers with considerate, knowledgeable and supportive expertise.  

She completed her PIP course and is now on call for the Federation, all whilst still being a frontline officer on a busy division.

Our East Constituency Rep of the Year was Dave Tritton.

Dave has been loyally supporting our membership mainly through dealing with misconduct and ensuring the force is held accountable.  

He is always available to provide expert advice to members and other Reps who need a sounding board or guidance.  

Our Central Constituency Rep of the Year was Jenny Pietersen.  

Jenny has been representing officers for the past five years and has emersed herself in the environment of Conduct and Performance and equality.  

She has now represented a number of officers and provided comfort and support when needed. The knowledge Jenny has around Police Regulations, Policy and operational policing has benefited our members greatly.  

All while being a very busy SIU Sergeant.  

Our North Constituency Rep of the Year was Ben Websdale.

Busy Ben has great deal of experience in the conduct and Post Incident Procedure world. He is always keen to assist others with his knowledge and experience and to assist with on call cover. He has assisted many officers in their time of need with calm reassurance and sound advice and he always does so with a smile on his face.

Raff Cioffi, Chair Elect of Sussex Police Federation, said: "It was a great pleasure to present these awards to our dedicated Reps, who's service sometimes goes unnoticed. Your time and commitment are appreciated and you truly have made a difference for our members. Thank you."