Welsh lead praises female colleagues

8 March 2022

The Police Federation’s Welsh lead Nicky Ryan has today spoken of her admiration for female officers at all levels of policing as she marks International Women’s Day.

“There are lots and lots of brilliant women,” said Nicky, “I admire female senior officers. While we’ll rarely agree on all matters, I appreciate the personal sacrifices they have had to put in, and continue to put in to achieve their position.

“Whatever officers would like to think, that role and rank is not achieved without hard work.

“I admire the young mums and those with caring responsibilities who are trying to juggle home life, shifts and everything else on a daily basis just to keep afloat.

“I genuinely don’t know how they do it.

“And I admire every single one of my colleagues and police friends who have helped me along the way, been a shoulder to lean on and a listening ear at times when it’s all got difficult.”

International Women’s Day aims to celebrate women's achievements, raise awareness against bias and take action for equality.

Nicky said that a lot of progress had been made in overcoming discrimination against women since she joined the Force in 1996.

“Policing has changed a lot in my time,” she said, “Part-time and flexible working and being a mother and a working police officer is now the norm. 

“Careers don’t stop due to motherhood. Unfortunately, they may slow down, so there’s lots of work to do, but it isn’t like it was.

“Male officers can apply for part-time and flexi-working and be police officers and fathers.

“And there are far more visible female senior leaders in the forces. Just under 50 per cent of the Welsh chief officer team is now female.

“If you can see it, you can be it.”

But there’s still work to do, added Nicky.

“Are women on an equal footing in policing? I’d like to say yes, but the reality is not yet,” she explained.

“What needs to change is that we need to think differently about how we provide a work-life balance for officers.

“We’re a service that provides 24-hour cover, so everyone’s needs should, in theory, be able to be accommodated.”

Nicky encouraged young women who were thinking of a career in policing to do it, but warned it’s not easy.

“I think the job is harder than it ever was,” she said, “There’s so much computer work and the level of documentation is huge.

“Young officers have to undertake the academic work as well as juggle 40-hour working weeks and a home life.

“But if you can get beyond that and onto a great team it’s a fabulous job that comes with a lot of laughs and experiences that members of the public never encounter.”

And she also encouraged more female officers to get involved with the Federation.

“Do it,” she said, “If you have an interest in fairness and ensuring people are treated fairly then join. We’d love to have you on board.”