Policing the Games: ‘Early issues have been ironed out’

5 August 2022

West Midlands Police Federation workplace representative Kin Devi (left) with an officer visiting the Federation's welfare van.

Early issues encountered at the start of the policing operation for the Commonwealth Games have been ironed out, with officers now settled into the rhythm of the event.

That is the view of Jon Nott, West Midlands Police Federation’s lead for the Games which are being hosted in Birmingham and opened last Thursday.

“There were some initial problems with some of the mutual aid officers’ accommodation,” says Jon, “But we were able to tackle these head-on and everything is going well with the accommodation, the meals provided and the stock of refreshments.

“The Operation Unity team which is heading up the police operation holds a daily meeting with the mutual aid liaison officers where any issues that have been raised can be addressed in a timely manner.”

Earlier this week, there was another influx of mutual aid officers as the athletics events began at the Alexandra Stadium.

“This took us into the next stage of the Games so we set up an extra welfare hub near the stadium while also having Federation welfare vans and reps at other sites where they can support the hundreds of officers who are policing what is the biggest event to come to the city,” Jon explains.

The Games run until 8 August with final competitions that day as well as the closing ceremony.

Chris James, West Midlands Police Federation deputy secretary, provides officers with refreshments from the Federation's welfare van.

Federation reps have been out and about in the West Midlands Police Federation welfare van during the Games providing officers with refreshments, support and advice.