April POLICE Magazine

12 April 2023

Polfed News

Spring is finally here, as is our April edition of POLICE magazine. This month covers a range of features including PFEW’s response to the Baroness Casey Review, as well as the shortfall in police pay over the last 20 years, via research from the Social Market Foundation, and our next fair pay campaign steps.

As Mental Health Awareness Week approaches, National Chair Steve Hartshorn interviews former Chief Constable Andy Rhodes, director of the National Police Wellbeing Service, about how the Police Covenant can make an impact, while PFEW Wellbeing Lead Belinda Goodwin discusses the need for real-time tracking of individual officers’ exposure to trauma so preventative measures can be taken by forces.

Looking back on International Women’s Day, with PFEW implementing its first online event led by National Women’s Group Chair Sue Honeywell, we acknowledge the uplift of women in senior positions within the organisation, while celebrating achievements and talking openly about ongoing challenges.

Also focusing on wellbeing this Stress Awareness Month, we spotlight the additional pressures officers come against on daily basis, including an interview with Chief Inspector Stewart Codling of Thames Valley Police who took the time to discuss TVP’s Men’s Forum initiative that has been supporting males with mental health, suicidal thoughts and standing up to poor behaviour.

Promoting the positive work of members who go above and beyond to support charities, we also share the inspirational stories of former Met officer Amanda Davidson who is taking on the London Marathon for Support Dogs and PC Jim Clarke from Cheshire Police who has become involved in the Cops in Ukraine campaign.

Our regular Chair Answers column also sees Deputy National Chair Tiff Lynch answer members’ questions on big issues, such as pay, overtime, and police accountability.

We hope you enjoy this month’s edition and find it informative.