REPS SPOTLIGHT


dual responsibility, balancing operational policing with Federation duties, is central to the role.


He believes representation has never been more important. “I think it’s very important that Federation reps support officers in today’s environment. We should manage expectations and set out clearly what we can try to achieve.” On the need for support systems, he adds: “Yes, it is essential. If officers do not have the correct support, they will be impacted hugely.” Benjamin also highlights the


importance of diversity within the Federation. “Policing has clearly changed, and the Federation needs to have people from all walks of life in order to better represent their members. If we do not do this, we run the risk of being seen as a ‘boys’ club’.” For him, representation must reflect the breadth of modern policing. Trust sits at the centre of his approach. He explains: “I build trust by offering a confidential support scheme. Whatever people tell me stays between me and that officer, no matter who they are. If somebody does not want people knowing, it’s not my place to say unless needed in relation to any issues. I am often asked directly by officers requiring support if I can help because they know how I operate and that I will assist where I can.” This emphasis on confidentiality has helped him build strong relationships with colleagues. He is particularly passionate about


welfare and conduct, which he sees as closely linked. He says: “I am passionate about welfare and conduct massively. I think they are directly linked. It is clear policing has changed and is under more


scrutiny than anywhere else, but welfare has suffered massively. As a result, officers have huge workloads and there is a sense the organisation does not care and is now purely figures-based. This has resulted in officers making mistakes due to workplace stress, or when they have attended incidents the organisation now fears the worst and feels as though they need to serve papers. This then results in sickness. There is a direct correlation between investigations being served and officer suicide, which has recently been highlighted.” His comments echo wider concerns across the service. When considering broader challenges for the Federation, Benjamin points


rewards are clear: “The most rewarding has been getting positive outcomes in grievances and conduct cases.” The role has also given him insight into


“I would say it’s massively important to engage. We need to know what the issues are and the regions need to work together.”


to the need for a shift in strategy. “The Federation has argued for pay increases for years and has repeated this argument, which has failed. National (PFEW HQ) needs to have a rethink over what can be achieved. They should (in my opinion) be looking more at industrial rights, standardised uniform, regulations being reviewed and updated and STL (statutory time limits) for misconduct investigations,” suggests Benjamin implying a move towards structural reform rather than solely financial advocacy.


Balancing Federation responsibilities with frontline duties is not without challenges. He notes: “I often do Federation work in my own time in order to ensure those who I support get the best work from me.” Despite this, the


organisational dynamics. “There is a huge difference between national and local, which is often voiced by the members.” This underscores the need to bridge the gap between national priorities and local experience. Looking ahead, Benjamin remains focused on making a positive contribution. While he admits he is “unsure” about what he is most looking forward to, his ambitions are clear: “I hope to have a positive impact. I don’t want the Federation to be seen as a club, as it has been seen in the past. It is about supporting officers and the organisation in doing things correctly. A working relationship is required with the SLT.”


He encourages others to step forward. “I would


encourage anyone to be a rep who wants to support their colleagues and pass on their experience. We need a direct link with national and the organisation to hear what the troops are saying.” For Benjamin, strong representation depends on engagement across the workforce. That message extends to all officers. “I would say it’s massively important to engage. We need to know what the issues are and the regions need to work together. Only as a collective body can we force and encourage change.” Through his commitment to trust,


advocacy and reform, Benjamin Hayes exemplifies a Federation representative grounded in the realities of modern policing and focused on delivering tangible support for colleagues.


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23 | POLICE | APRIL | 2026


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