Fed chair backs petition for POCA funds to be used in support of officers

9 April 2024

West Mercia Police Federation chair Steve Butler has backed a campaign for an allocation of funds seized under the Proceeds of Crime Act to go towards the support of officers living with injuries and conditions sustained in policing.

A petition has recently been launched to propose the introduction of a policy that would see organisations providing care to affected officers, both active and retired, receive an annual portion of money recovered from assets obtained through criminal activity.

“This movement has been needed for a long time,” said Steve. “There are some great causes out there for police staff affected in this way, but they aren’t getting enough opportunities to receive financial aid.”

The Act, passed in 2002, recovered £339.1 million of assets through Confiscation, Forfeiture and Civil Recovery Orders in the financial year 2022 to 2023. This figure is down only 5 per cent on 2021 to 2022, the highest year on record for proceeds of crime recovered, and still reflects the overall rising trend in asset recovery over the last six years.

While acknowledging that funds generated have historically been directed back into the Force, Steve believes there is a need for some cops to feel the benefit of the Act more directly.

“It’s important to note that some money has been received by the Force and has generally been put to good use in the past, but I still think there is a gap in its distribution. We need funding specifically for the purpose of supporting those living with a condition sustained on the job.”

Beneficiaries of the campaign’s success would include Police Care UK, who have appealed for more financial aid in their efforts to support the welfare, recovery and wellbeing of current and ex-staff who are injured or living with disability and mental health issues as a result of their roles in the Force.

Steve continued: “The public may see a criminal being caught and think that’s the end of the story. What isn’t as visible is an officer who has been physically hurt or exposed to psychological trauma in the process.

“These charities need the backing to do invaluable work for these people.”

The petition, which was rolled out at the end of February, has passed 4500 signatures on the Official UK Parliament website and is heavily endorsed by Steve.

“I would urge all members to do their bit in maximising this real opportunity for police colleagues around the country. The least we deserve for our commitment is proper care in case that commitment comes at a cost.”

Members can sign and learn more about the petition by visiting its official page here.