New chair of health and safety committee shares plans to boost engagement

6 June 2023

“I know health and safety might not be the most interesting topic to talk about, which is why I want to take a new, innovative approach, to engage and raise awareness for our members.”

Just a few weeks into his new role as chair of West Midlands Police Federation’s Health and Safety Committee, Patrick McBrearty reveals how he plans to educate officers and raise awareness.

“I want officers to learn about health and safety without even realising they’re doing so,” said Patrick, who will be taking over from former chair Lee Hayward.

“I know health and safety can have a reputation as being a boring subject and it’s going to be an uphill battle trying to get members to proactively engage, but I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

Having joined West Midlands Force in 2002, Patrick’s career has seen him in a variety of roles, including seven years in uniform on the front line, to the investigation of serious crime.

In 2021, he became a Workplace Rep and has since been developing his role in the Federation.

“I really, really enjoy my role. In fact, I very quickly realised that I wanted to get involved with the Federation as much as possible, especially when it comes to health and safety,” said Patrick.

“Getting policies, procedures and legislation put in place can make such a huge difference, and that was proven when the Health and Safety At Work Act 1974 was introduced. It reduced the amount of fatal and non-fatal incidents in the workplace significantly. It was unbelievable, and that is why raising awareness is so important.”

Moving forward, Patrick says he is looking to explore new ways to engage with members, focusing not only on physical health but the mental wellbeing of officers too.

“I’m really invested in the mental health of our members; I have a real passion for it. I hope to use my platform as health and safety chair to raise awareness of the importance of looking after our wellbeing,” Patrick said.

West Midlands Police Federation health and safety lead Deano Walker has congratulated Patrick on his new role.

“As I welcome Patrick into his new role, I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank former chair Lee for all of his hard work to date,” said Deano.

“I know Patrick comes fully equipped with many bright ideas and I look forward to seeing what direction he takes the committee in.”