NEWS
empathy, dedication and professionalism. He listened without judgment, often outside normal working hours, and provided consistent, honest and well-informed guidance. His expertise in regulations and procedures was immediately evident, but what set him apart was that he genuinely cared. I was open with Andy from the outset about having ADHD and explained that I can sometimes go off on tangents or struggle to articulate my point clearly. Our initial conversation, which lasted well over an hour, highlighted his outstanding communication skills. He gently and respectfully refocused discussions by rephrasing questions or prompting me appropriately, ensuring he fully understood my circumstances. He adapted his approach instinctively, without hesitation or judgement, something I found both rare and invaluable. One of the most significant differences in Andy’s approach was his complete impartiality. Coming from a different force and having no prior knowledge of me, he brought no assumptions or biases to the situation. It was immediately clear he had substantial experience in investigations; his questions focused on the integrity and proportionality of the investigative process itself, rather than simply my actions or the potential outcome. Andy also took the time to explain how Professional Standards
procedures operate and the rationale behind them. This clarity gave me perspective at a time when I felt overwhelmed and disillusioned. His responsiveness was exceptional. He replied promptly to emails, messages and phone calls, even if only to acknowledge contact. He recognised that impulsivity and anxiety can be significant factors for someone with ADHD and remained accessible even on rest days. At the time of our first discussions, Andy was not my appointed Federation representative. Due to previous negative experiences, I had chosen not to request representation for my misconduct meeting, a decision rooted in how mentally unwell the prolonged investigation had left me. When I later approached Andy regarding my appeal, he immediately began reviewing the
MUKUND KRISHNA, PFEW CEO, SAID:
“Andy Swift’s conduct and
Andy Swift
case, identifying procedural breaches, poor investigative strategy and relevant mitigation. Although the appeal was ultimately unsuccessful, I firmly believe that had Andy been present at the initial misconduct meeting, the fair and proportionate outcome I had originally anticipated would have been achieved. As someone with ADHD, I am particularly
“He listened without judgment, often outside normal working hours, and provided consistent, honest and well-informed guidance.”
sensitive to issues of fairness and strict adherence to policy and procedure, one of the reasons policing resonates so strongly with me. I had thoroughly familiarised myself with College of Policing guidance and relevant regulations, which only reinforced my sense I had not been adequately supported. Andy’s knowledge was exceptional. He confidently
referenced legislation, corrected me where appropriate, and restored my confidence in the process. I remember thinking very clearly: this is what a Federation representative should be. Since working with Andy, I have recommended him to other officers from my local force. In one case, a student officer was served gross misconduct papers for a matter already addressed under Regulation 13 six months earlier. Despite being advised by two local Federation representatives to resign, Andy attended the misconduct meeting and supported the officer, who ultimately retained his role with an extended probation. That outcome speaks volumes about Andy’s commitment to fairness and his refusal to accept defeat where proportionality demands challenge. I am deeply concerned that advising
commitment, as described by Lyndsey, exemplify the very highest standards of Federation representation. His professionalism, impartiality and compassion demonstrate precisely what our members should be able to expect when they turn to the Federation at moments of personal and professional vulnerability. “What stands out most powerfully in Andy’s work is not only his technical knowledge and command of regulations, but his humanity. He listened. He adapted his approach to meet the individual needs of the member he was supporting. He challenged where challenge was necessary, and he did so with integrity, courage and an unwavering commitment to fairness. This is representation at its best. “I am acutely aware that officers
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often contact the Federation at the lowest points in their careers, when the pressure feels overwhelming and the consequences life changing. In those moments, the role of a Federation representative is not simply procedural; it is pivotal. The quality of that support can determine not only the outcome of a case, but an officer’s wellbeing, confidence and future in policing. “Andy’s approach is a powerful reminder that effective representation is rooted in impartiality, preparation, emotional intelligence and a genuine willingness to stand alongside members, even when doing so is challenging. He has shown that fairness and compassion are not at odds with accountability, they are essential to it. “To all Federation representatives, I offer this as both recognition and encouragement. Your role matters. The time you invest, the way you communicate and the effort you make to understand the individual behind the case can have a profound and lasting impact. “I commend Andy for his outstanding
service to our members, and I encourage all representatives to reflect on the principles his work embodies. This is how we uphold the values of the Federation. This is how we make a difference.”
07 | POLICE | FEBRUARY | 2026
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