REPS SPOTLIGHT


SPECIALS STEP UP AS FED REPS


A look at the journeys of Special Constables Andrew Dollard and David


Warren as they embark on the path to be Federation reps, bringing with them diverse backgrounds and a shared commitment to support fellow officers


In the dynamic realm of policing, where every day brings new challenges and opportunities, the role of a Federation representative holds significant weight. Special constables, who already


dedicate their time to serving their communities, are stepping up to take on additional responsibilities within the Federation, ensuring the voices of all officers, including themselves, are heard and represented.


Andrew Dollard: Giving special constables a voice


With three years of service under his belt as a special constable in response


neighbourhood policing teams, Andrew Dollard felt the call to take on the role of a Federation representative. His motivation stemmed from a desire to ensure specials had a voice and influence within the force. Reflecting on his transition to becoming a rep, Andy shared: “I wanted special constables to have a voice but also saw it as an opportunity to become closer to our regular colleagues, to blend our aspirations with those that we work alongside.” Drawing from his experience as a trade


union rep in his workplace, Andy brings a wealth of knowledge in supporting individuals with various employment issues to his role as a Fed rep. Despite initial concerns about representation preferences among regular officers, Andy found acceptance and recognition for the unique perspective that specials offer. Andy emphasised the importance of being a supportive presence for fellow officers. He stated: “Being a specials rep is no different from any other Fed workplace rep. It’s about having an ‘open door’ policy for any member, being there to help them


in any capacity you can and listening to them in a non-judgmental manner.”


David Warren: Bridging experience from HR to policing


David Warren, with almost a year of service as a Special Constable


in Runcorn Local Policing Unit, brings a diverse background in human resource management and military service to his role as a Federation rep. Intrigued by the opportunity to support officers and utilise his transferrable skills, David expressed interest in the Federation role early in his policing journey.


Reflecting on his transition to becoming a


Fed rep, David shared: “I felt I could use my experience, particularly as a practicing HR professional to support officers.” Balancing his duties as a Fed rep alongside operational volunteering and a full-time job, David acknowledges the challenge of finding equilibrium but remains committed to making a positive impact. Underscoring the significance of representation and support within the force, David stated: “It can be hard to


have your voice heard in a hierarchical organisation like the police. Independent support that is approachable and relatable can represent officers at all levels in the force.” The journeys of Andy and David highlight the importance of diversity and representation within the Federation. As special constables, they bring unique perspectives and experiences, enriching the collective voice of officers. Their dedication to supporting colleagues and advocating for their rights exemplifies the core values of policing: integrity, professionalism, and community service. In a profession where every decision


and action can have profound implications, having dedicated representatives like Andy and David ensures officers have the support they need to navigate challenges and thrive in their roles. As they continue their journeys as Federation reps, their contributions will undoubtedly shape the future of policing, fostering a culture of inclusivity, support, and excellence. In the ever-evolving landscape of policing, the commitment of individuals like Andy and David serves as a beacon of hope and progress, driving positive change and empowering officers to uphold the principles of justice and service.


27 | POLICE | APRIL | 2024


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