Jess urges women officers to consider being Fed reps

4 September 2026

In May 2025 Jess Davies made history by becoming the first female chair of West Midlands Police Federation, pledging at the time to make the branch truly representative of the membership.

Now, with branch elections just around the corner, she is hoping to inspire other women officers to consider putting themselves forward as Federation workplace representatives.

“I am thoroughly enjoying my role,” says Jess, “It does, of course, bring many challenges and the last 12 months have been eventful, but I am incredibly proud to be the chair of this branch, to represent the West Midlands at national Federation meetings and to provide our members with a voice, locally, regionally and nationally.

“There is nothing more rewarding than being able to help a member in need. Our members turn to the Federation when they are facing difficulties, perhaps due to an issue at work or because they are subject to a conduct investigation and we can guide them through that and offer support every step of the way.

“Workplace representatives receive full training for their role and can take specialist courses covering conduct, equality and health and safety. This training can also prove useful in their day-to day role as a police officer too.

“I would encourage all women officers to at least find out more about becoming a Federation rep. I would be more than happy to talk to any officer considering putting themselves forward.”

Jess is backing a national Federation campaign aimed at helping ensure the organisation better reflects its membership.

Nationally, women now make up 36 per cent of the Federation’s membership, yet currently account for 26 per cent of Federation representatives. West Midlands Police Federation is slightly above this national average with 10 of its 36 current reps being women.

Through the Federation’s new ‘Elevate| Positive Promotion’ initiative, the Federation is looking to better understand the barriers women may face and create more opportunities for them to get involved in representative roles.

As part of this commitment, the Federation is hosting a dedicated event on 29 and 30 September that will bring together female Fed reps from across England and Wales to discuss progression opportunities and help shape future initiatives to support greater representation.

The event forms part of the Federation's wider work to promote equality, nurture talent and ensure members from all backgrounds are encouraged and supported to contribute to the organisation.

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from speakers, share their experiences, network with colleagues and learn more about the mentoring, coaching and development support available through the Federation.

Ahead of the West Midlands Police Federation election a Q and A session with branch officials will be held online between 11am and 12 noon on Thursday (10 September) for all members interested in standing in the forthcoming branch elections.

Nominations open on Wednesday (9 September) and close on 23 September. Voting will take place between 25 September and 9 October.

Teams link for the Q and A session.

Contact Matt Manwaring for more information and to express an interest in seeking election.

Find out more about the role of a Federation representative.