LABOUR PARTY CONFERENCE


This includes better equipment and more consistent training across the 43 police services, as inconsistencies in procurement practices were flagged as an issue. The lack of sufficient funding for officer safety initiatives was seen as a crucial area requiring government attention.


PENSIONS AND OFFICER WELLBEING


Concerns were also raised around the administration of police pensions. The Policing Minister expressed interest in understanding how different police services are communicating with officers regarding their pension forecasts. It was noted many officers continue to face challenges in accessing accurate information, which is a source of frustration. It was highlighted the Federation is working with advisors to support officers, but we emphasised more must be done at the force level to improve communication.


Officer welfare and wellbeing emerged as a key topic of conversation, with the discussion extending to how PCCs could potentially redirect funds, such as


Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) money, towards officer wellbeing programmes. There were positive steps towards progress in this area, with two PCCs committing to being directly introduced to wellbeing leads to advance the work on the Police Covenant, which is designed to support the health and welfare of officers.


ACCOUNTABILITY AND LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY Several ongoing campaigns were discussed during the meeting. The campaign to reform DG6 legislation was flagged as a priority. There is a need to identify new champions within Parliament to push for these legislative changes, particularly as MPs who previously supported the initiative are no longer in their positions. Additionally, Dan Jarvis, Labour MP and security lead, is actively involved in accountability assessment work and will be arranging a meeting with the PFEW secretary’s office to discuss the recommendations.


HONEST CONVERSATIONS AND ADDRESSING THE ROOT CAUSES


Finally, there was an emphasis on the importance of “honest conversations” between police services and the Government. Echoing the words of Labour MP Rachel Reeves, the group stressed the need for transparency about the state of the police service. The police service cannot continue to function reactively, with inadequate budgets and declining recruitment standards. The Government’s rhetoric around supporting police officers during times of unrest must be backed by actions that address long- standing structural issues. Sarah Edwards, MP for Tamworth, committed to pushing for action on police pay and collective bargaining rights.


Acting National Chair Tiff Lynch


noted: “The meeting was a productive forum for Labour MPs, PCCs, and police representatives to align on several pressing issues. From industrial rights to officer safety and wellbeing, the discussion covered a broad range of challenges that require immediate attention and long- term solutions. With a new government in place, there is optimism this dialogue will translate into meaningful actions.”


THE POLICE FEDERATION OF ENGLAND AND WALES


JUNE 2023 THE POLICE FEDERATION OF ENGLAND AND WALES APRIL 2024 POLICE


MUTUAL AID POLICING


Elizabeth Emblem PFEW’s campaign pays off


From the CEO’s desk Keeping members updated


Chair Asks Bravery Awards 2024 judges


Blue Knights Biking for a cause


POLICE


GOD SAVE THE KING AN INCREDIBLE POLICING ACHIEVEMENT


Bravery Awards Our amazing 2023 nominees


Men’s health Equality for all officers


Suicide prevention A powerful Lancashire initiative


Officer safety Advances in body armour


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THE POLICE FEDERATION OF ENGLAND AND WALES


FEBRUARY 2024 POLICE ON THE HIGHWAY


Police Covenant Officer welfare


Steve Hartshorn Lobbying for change


Police rugby A touring side


The dual role Parenthood and policing


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