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Y Gwanwyn / Spring 2011
Ffederasiwn Heddlu Gogledd Cymru Ar Y Cyd â Heddlu Gogledd Cymru / North Wales Police Federation In Association With North Wales Police
Chief Constable’s Update
well informed about local policing issues, compared to 35% last year. To give you a quick overview of how we fared in the survey:
K People overall seem to feel that Awards they have more influence over policing priorities, although Page 2 & 3 awareness of what the actual priorities are seem to have fallen significantly. K Perceptions of some of the key ASB concerns have improved, particularly with regard to issues around young people hanging around and drunk Chief Constable, Mark Polin and rowdy behaviour. K Policing perceptions around Firstly I would like to thank all of you who treatment, reliability fairness took part in the cultural survey. One of the and value for money have Project 2011+ Update performance indicators within the annual remained stable. policing priorities was to improve upon Pages 12 & 13 your assessment of leadership in the K Awareness of the NPT and seeing organisation. This target was achieved police officers has decreased, with staff feeling that there had been whereas knowing who your local significant improvements in professional officers are has remained stable. judgement and service delivery, working K One in 20 people, which equates environment and pride, and both to some 33,000 people, are aware leadership and management. of Balance your Bobbies and 38% There were some areas which showed as of those asked were aware of the having deteriated from last year and they 101 non emergency number. will be subjected to further analysis, both at a Force divisional and departmental level, to understand what actions may be taken to We will be building on this in the coming year with trust and confidence still very Tackling Serious and ensure that things improve. The action plan will be publicised and will demonstrate that much at the top of the agenda. Organised Crime your views really continue to make a Finally, I would like to draw your attention to difference. Its implementation will be the update on Project 2011+ included in this Page 15 overseen by me. edition. I know there has been concern in The plans around next year's survey are some quarters that some decisions are not currently in discussion with chief officers and being made quickly enough; whilst I the Police Authority. For more information understand the frustration, it is of about the survey results see page 5. paramount importance that we consult on key decisions, both inside and outside the I'd like to go on to thank you all again, this organisation on occasion, and that we get time for the part you played in significantly those decisions right for some will be raising the overall confidence level in North virtually irreversible once made. Moreover, Wales Police from 77% in 2009 to 84% in individuals and teams are being affected 2010. and it is important that we do our very best to appoint people to roles, in accordance Despite the Home Office removing the with their wishes where possible, but in all mandate for conducting local confidence cases on a sound basis. This will sometimes surveys we took the decision to continue to Sports Section take longer than a decision made in haste. measure confidence at local authority level. We won’t always get it right but we are Pages 20 & 21 The most recent results, released on January certainly trying. 12th, showed that 40% of people now feel 59121 Focus Link Spring:42402 Focus Link Spring 04 4/3/11 09:33 Page 2
FORCE AWARDS
The latest Force Awards Ceremony took place at the Interchange in Old Colwyn on the evening of Thursday 3rd Febuary. The event was well attended by Police Officers, Police Staff members, their families and friends. Amongst the deserving and inspiring recipients of awards were the following:
CHIEF CONSTABLE’S COMMENDATIONS Constable 2585 Glenys Jones for an outstanding act of bravery whilst disarming A call room supervisor and a member of the and arresting a person who was threatening to Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue Team were set alight a propane gas cylinder. awarded for their work in developing a system to improve the way mountain rescue incidents are dealt with. Detective Constable 1038 Steven Hughes and Acting Sergeant 2256 Jennifer Williams Their SMS ‘SARCALL' system is being for their outstanding commitment and considered for use by forces across the UK. investigative skills displayed during Operation Ruby. David Roberts-Simcock and John Hulse, a team leader with Ogwen Valley Mountain Christine Gunning & Paul Byron Rescue, were presented with a ‘Chief with Assistant Chief Constable POLICE LONG SERVICE AND GOOD Constable's Commendation' by Assistant Gareth Pritchard SERVICE AWARD Chief Constable Gareth Pritchard at a Force Inspector Karl Rathbone, Constable 919 Awards evening at the Interchange, Old Lynette Ryott-Clayton, Detective Chief Colwyn, in February. Inspector Graham Talbot, Sergeant 515 Darren Jacks, Constable 128 Valerie Kirman, Chief Inspector David Roome, Sergeant 495 CHIEF CONSTABLE’S COMMENDATIONS Samantha Roberts, Sergeant 844 Neil WERE ALSO AWARDED TO: Stringfellow, Constable 235 Angela Jones, Sergeant 1943 Emlyn Hughes for his Constable 266 Petra Ashton, Constable 883 Gary Martin, Constable 1093 Carol Coole, contribution to the successful reduction in Inspector Paul McKeown, Acting Inspector deaths and serious injuries in drivers across Aled Eynon, Constable 321 Linda O’Hare, North Wales. Sergeant Hughes was Constable 587 Paul Siebenmann, Constable instrumental in gaining the support of 160 Joseph Caffrey, Constable 625 John McDonalds for the Deadly Mates campaign McCarthy, Detective Constable 1038 Steven and he has successfully secured 150 places Hughes, Constable 1791 Michael Jones, Alistair Read, Dave Roberts – Simcock, Chief Inspector Ian Maxwell, Sergeant 732 for young drivers on the AA Drive Smart John Hulse – Moutain Rescue Andrew Jones, Sergeant 896 Wyn Williams, Scheme. Constable 322 Garry Lamb, Constable 447 Gary Threlfall, Constable 948 Ian Davies, Temporary D/Constable 2341 Paul Byron Constable 1694 Christopher Jeffs, and Christine Gunning, CSI, for their Constable 109 Bryan Teeson and dedication to duty and investigative skills Constable 64 Alix Langton. above and beyond the standard expected in POLICE LONG SERVICE AND GOOD relation to the investigation of a series of SERVICE AWARD cannabis cultivation and money laundering cases across North Wales Police and other Malcolm Hughes, Alan Williams, Egryn force areas. Roberts, Debbie Murray, Marian Davies, Ruth Wild, Helen Oldfield and Kathryn Brady. Constable 1944 David Lobjoit for an outstanding act of bravery whilst disarming Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue Team member and arresting a person who was Alistair Read, whose rope rescue skills helped threatening to set alight a propane gas Alistair Read – save the lives of two Kayakers, was also Royal Humane Society Award cylinder. presented with a Royal Humane Society award.
Stonewall awards
North Wales Police has been placed 26 in Stonewall's top 100 NWP has also received a Community Safety Award UK employers. from Stonewall Cymru for its work to tackle homophobic abuse on public transport. Stonewall's Workplace Equality Index provides an evidence based model of good practice and challenges employers to improve Posters drawing bus passengers' attention to this their performance for LGB staff. North Wales Police entered the type of crime have been placed on local buses and index for the first time in 2009 and for two years held 50th place. public response has been very positive.
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OFFICER PRAISED AS LIFE SAVER
Quick thinking PC Fran Donaghy, who would make it to Glan Clwyd and asked my saved the life of a man suffering from wife to follow him to the local GP surgery. anaphylactic shock, is now in line for a With blue lights flashing he cleared the Chief Constable's commendation. traffic and we arrived at Beech House Surgery." Fran, who is based in St Asaph as part of the Eastern Roads Policing Unit, has been put Fran said he immediately knew what to do forward for the award after coming to the as his daughter suffers from a peanut aid of Paul Marfleet whose wife was allergy, he knew that adrenaline was needed attempting to drive him from their home in immediately. Nantglyn to Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, Recalling the day, Fran said: "After stopping Bodelwyddan. the car, I looked at Paul and I could clearly On December 13 Fran found himself being see that he needed treatment as soon as flagged down in Denbigh town centre by possible. Time was of the essence and I knew Mrs Marfleet who was stuck in traffic. He that any delay would be detrimental, so a Paul Marfleet met up with Fran to quickly realised how serious the situation local surgery was the best option. I knew personally thank him for his lifesaving actions. was for Paul and with time of the essence he that I needed to administer the adrenaline in escorted their car through the traffic to a a bid to counteract the reaction he was local surgery and rushed in to get a syringe having and managed to do just that." Both my wife and I are of adrenaline which he then injected into Paul was then taken by ambulance to Ysbyty of the opinion that Paul's leg. Glan Clwyd and has since made a full I probably wouldn't Paul said: "Both my wife and I are of the recovery. opinion that I probably wouldn't have have survived the thirty Superintendent Gary Ashton said: "Fran's survived the thirty minute delay to Glan minute delay to Glan actions were commendable and in keeping Clwyd. As such Fran's actions probably with the office of constable which first and Clwyd. As such Fran's saved my life. My wife saw a police car and foremost relates to the protection of life. He actions probably leapt out in front of it. The officer from traffic can be extremely proud of his actions." looked at me and said that he didn't think I saved my life.
Family Liaison Officers meet HRH The Prince of Wales
Family Liaison Officers PC Mark Lightfoot and Detective Sgt to publicly acknowledge the demanding role of FLO’s. I felt very Kevin Evans recently joined FLO’s from across the UK at a proud to be representing FLO’s from North Wales Police. It's a Clarence House reception hosted by HRH’s The Prince of Wales critical role, not only supporting family members at one of the most and The Duchess of Cornwall to recognise their vital work. difficult times of their lives, but also working as a key part of investigating teams. Thanks to our training, we can make a real Mark, an experienced Roads Policing Officer, has worked with difference to families coming to the families of numerous terms with their loss and that fatal road traffic collision has made it very rewarding." victims as well as assisting in other unexplained deaths. Kevin said "North Wales Police Kevin, a FLO for 12 years FLO’s are a very professional, from the Operational Support caring and dedicated group of Group, works mostly with the individuals all of whom perform families of murder victims, the role on a voluntary basis. but also went to Thailand to Very often in the immediate help families bereaved by the aftermath of a death FLO’s are Tsunami. with the victims' families from dawn till dusk ensuring where There have been a number of DS 44 Kevin Evans PC 481 Mark Lightfoot possible all their needs are met occasions when the Prince of as well as attempting to obtain Wales has spoken to suddenly vital information to assist any bereaved relatives and a common theme has been the excellent and investigation. This can sometimes be very difficult, but FLO’s are often unseen work done by FLO's. He personally requested the always focused on giving their utmost on behalf of the victim, and reception to meet some of the people who perform this role. victim's family. Therefore to represent my colleagues and receive Mark said: "It was a great honour to meet HRH The Prince of Wales acknowledgement for our work was a real honour as was meeting and the Duchess of Cornwall and it is nice of them to take the time and speaking with Prince Charles and the Duchess."
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PAY PENSIONS AND POTS RICHIE ECCLES - JBB SECRETARY As I sat down to write this piece, I was hit by the same old I am not getting drawn into a problems that I needed to resolve, but it dawned on me that:- debate around the definition of ‘frontline roles’ but I cannot see 1) Chris Warner DID actually give me plenty of notice for his how with reduced resources deadlines – I just chose to ignore them, and; and reduced Officer numbers 2) There were always too many important topics to include in we can still deliver the same an article to do them all justice. quality of service across all I will therefore try and cover some of the key areas for you as best areas of policing – something I can. will have to give. I hope that as you read this article the two Our aim as your Federation is to National documents in relation to our ensure that ‘give’ is not in relation to your safety or personal equipment which future pay and conditions and pensions Just because everything have finally been published. enables you to do your job. is different doesn't I am pleased that the Project 2011+ WINSOR Report on Pay and Conditions – mean anything has 8th March, 2011 Team were able to put some assurances changed. in place in relation to shift patterns and HUTTON Report on Pensions – 10th March, equally, I would like to thank on your 2011-03-01 Irene Peter behalf all those involved in the recent These reports together with any supporting ‘Expressions of Interest’ exercise to information will be posted upon allocate Officers to roles/locations. publication on our local Federation intranet I put a dollar in one of Whilst it was not without ‘casualties’, I site and additionally on www.polfed.org. those change machines. am heartened to see the lengths that Whatever comes from these two reports, I people went to in order to put Officers in can assure you that our National Nothing changed. roles and locations to match skills and Negotiating Team at Leatherhead have George Carlin personal requests. I cannot recall so been working tirelessly on protecting your much transparency and consultation in interests on all fronts and providing factual such an exercise before. and evidenced submissions.
More locally, we face massive changes as we move towards the I will assure you that there is a constant ongoing dialogue ‘go live’ date of 4th May, 2011 for the new policing model for between your Federation and the 2011+ Team, Commanders and Response, Investigation and Neighbourhoods. Chief Officers as we move towards 4th May, 2011 in an effort to Whilst there is uncertainty regarding the way in which the get it right for you and the public. policing will be delivered, I am confident that those Officers I hope that approach will continue as we review and implement involved will continue to deliver 100% to make it work. changes across other areas including Custody and Roads Policing. It remains to be seen if the Force and Police Authority have I will endeavour to keep you all as informed as possible dedicated enough Officers to the vital areas to deliver a quality throughout the changes – As always – if I am not getting it policing service. right – please let me know!
POLICE FEDERATION SURGERIES
Chesterton Grant Mortgage/Retirement Planning Rowlands Field Cunningham – Matrimonial Surgery Federation Office Eastern Division - Wrexham DHQ 29th March, 2011 23rd May, 2011 23rd March, 2011 24th March, 2011 26th July, 2011 13th April, 2011 14th April, 2011 11th May, 2011 12th May, 2011 Linder Myers - Matrimonial Surgery 15th June, 2011 16th June, 2011 6th April, 2011 Russell Jones & Walker – Divorce 4 Police 4th May, 2011 8th June, 2011 4th April, 2011 13th July, 2011 9th May, 2011 10th August, 2011
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YOURSAY Survey Prize ‘Sponsor’ - Spillane & Co. Wealth Management Nearly 73% of those who work for North Wales Police took the Although this is recorded as a significantly negative change there opportunity to make their views heard through the Cultural are a number of factors to take into account when considering Survey. the analysis of this area. The impact of a shift in strategic focus from an organisation which spent a number of years with a Some areas had improved on the previous year's survey, whilst single measure (detection rate) as an outcome of success to an others had not and action plans to address these are being drawn organisation with five strategic priorities headed by trust and up at divisional and departmental levels. confidence should not be underestimated. The full results of the survey, along with last year's results for The numbers agreeing that public confidence should be the most comparison, are available on the intranet. This is a brief overview of important measure of our success also reduced from 71.2% to the main findings. 64.9%, as did those who thought that public feedback should be To start with the positive changes 78% part of a performance appraisal for anyone dealing with the public. agreed that policing styles should change to Down from 58.5% to 53.5%. suit different communities; 47% disagreed 64% agreed that there is equal that all laws should be enforced at all times, opportunity for all genders to progress in otherwise people lose respect for the law; the organisation, down from 73%. 54.9% 55.9% disagreed that we should have a zero agreed that positive action initiatives are tolerance approach to minor offences. taken seriously throughout the force for All of these scores had improved on the black and minority recruitment, compared previous findings. to 59.8% last time. 48.9% thought development opportunities are equal The results in this area suggest that staff regardless of age. 59% agreed in 2009. have a more proportionate view as to how 63% agreed that the force always addresses certain crimes should be dealt with, and this homophobic issues and concerns, this is may be as a result clear strategic messages again down from 67.9%. around proportionality including the work carried out throughout the year around Chris Spillane presenting There seems to be a general deterioration in Value Based Decision Making. DC Karyn Gallagher with the prize. a number of areas normally associated with the diversity portfolio. It may be that this is With regard to working environment and linked to the current financial climate and pride 51.2% agreed that there is a positive the associated impact on regular recruitment atmosphere in their workplace, compared to 46.9% last year. This and promotion opportunities, coupled with significant is a particularly impressive achievement when considering the scale organisational decisions around retirement of police officers and and impact of change as a result of the necessary downsizing of the police staff. organisation. Alongside the set questions the survey also attracted some 2,000 There was also a significant improvement in the number of people additional comments which are being worked through. These along who felt that their manager would back them up if they made a with the questions results will be used to develop a Force action mistake in good faith, up to 67.9% compared to 63.5%. plan to continue to help understand and improve the Moving on to the negative changes, 55.7% disagreed that some organisational culture so as to ensure the delivery of a high quality victims of crime are more deserving of a good service than others. public service. The figure was 59.7% last time round. 70.4% disagreed that trying The plans around next year's survey are currently in discussion to work in partnership with other agencies is a waste of time, as with chief officers and the Police Authority and a great compared to 77.4% previously, and 70.5% were clear about our thanks is extended to all those who took part in the survey. organisational goals, as opposed to 73% in the last survey. Staff views really do make a difference.
RECOGNISING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD FACEBOOK AND TWITTER
On 21st October 2010 Keith Sinclair (PC 16) received a North Wales Police has over 1,570 Facebook fans, 'Recognising Achievement Award' from the Welsh Assembly with the numbers increasing each week. Government presented by the first Minister Carwyn Jones and Deputy Ieuan Wyn Jones at a reception held at Ruthin Castle. Information on incidents, campaigns and events is featured and people have the opportunity to have It was a a prestigious event as these awards are brand new and their say. Force news is also released on Twitter. this is the first time these have been held To join the force Facebook and Twitter pages in Wales. There were follow the links from the Force website three events in total or type in representing different categories - Facebook: www.facebook.com/NWPolice Keith's was the Twitter: www.twitter.com/NWPolice Diversity in the Community Category.
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NEVER TOO OLD TO ENJOY!
I have always been a “petrol head “ and in particular I have Silverstone, Donnington Park, Cadwell Park, Oulton Park and the enjoyed watching both Formula 1 which is my unashamed stunning Anglesey Circuit (Trac Mon) to name a few. Motor Racing passion but I have equally enjoyed both Touring Car racing and is both hard fought and rewarding, in a very competitive Rallying. My other passion is Classic Cars preferably Ford environment sometimes too competitive and I have the panel Escorts of the 1970’s. I tried some road rallying in the 70’s but damage and repairs to prove it! However, we work in a tough job like many run out of money at the wrong time! and this is a fantastic release and a real opportunity to build up a network of new friends from very diverse backgrounds and walks of My interest has never waned and I have always wanted to race cars life. and four years ago had and took the opportunity to buy and subsequently race a Ford Escort XR3i in the very popular Ford I have progressively developed my race craft and this year had a Racing EU National Championship. The Championship whilst open very reliable and competitive year managing to actually finish across the UK is predominantly entered by drivers based around runner up in the XR3i class and third overall in the Championship the North West of England and North Wales (well two of us). The with some good podium finishes a pole position and fastest lap to championship is run over 8-10 weekends with up to 16 rounds round of the year. This performance resulting in my receiving my counting towards the overall Championship. XR3i Championship runner up award at the National British Racing and Sports Car Club (BRSCC) awards evening held in The cars whilst “slightly” modified they are effectively showroom Stratford Upon Avon in November. Interestingly it was the second standard in terms of engine. The racing development whilst limited North Wales Competitor and my team mate that was the overall within the engine is all in the suspension and some gearbox winner so a good year all round. trickery including a body weight loss programme that sees them run about 400Kgs less than a road going variant. This effectively No one achieves anything in Motor racing without support and I means the cars are identical and make for very competitive and would particularly mention and thank SIONAL Promotional close racing which is also as cost effective as any racing can be. The Merchandise and Anglesey Autosport of Gaerwen for their race specification is robustly policed and all cars have a minimum continued support and assistance throughout the last three years. weight of 935kgs and are weighed and have various checks both Looking forward to 2011 which commences on 2nd April at Oulton before and at the end of each race. Park. I have now completed three full seasons racing around a variety of circuits across Britain including the classic race circuits of Terry Kellaher
Collaborating to cut costs
Police forces in Wales agreed on the 21st January to collaborate across Wales, using links with the North West to create a broader in key areas to cut costs to try to maintain front line services. common operating area. NWP will focus on the realignment of business process and systems to enable an alignment of ICT A Specialist Crime Directorate will initially be established systems. between Gwent and South Wales Police, with Dyfed-Powys Police opting in to specific elements. This Directorate will also take North Wales also lead on an All-Wales Criminal Justice Board to responsibility for the Wales Extreme Counter Terrorism Unit create uniform criminal justice processes across Wales and increase (WECTU), a four-force collaboration project. capacity for the Police and Crown Prosecution Service. A Joint Scientific Support Unit will be established between Gwent A Joint Procurement Unit will be established between Gwent, and South Wales Police, with Dyfed-Powys Police opting in to some South Wales and Dyfed-Powys Police. aspects of the service. Dyfed-Powys lead on Interoperability between forces, identifying Gwent, South Wales and Dyfed-Powys Police will develop options new opportunities for collaboration through standardising systems for the establishment of a joint firearms range. or practices, ensuing that we work together to improve our service to the communities we serve. North Wales lead the Development of a common ICT infrastructure
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TACKLINGTHEFINANCIALCRISIS DI TIM GREEN - PSD
North Wales Police recognise that during mean that you will automatically be advice or a referral. Do not bury your head difficult economic times some employees subject of misconduct proceedings. It is an in the sand waiting for a Lottery win, it may are likely to face financial hardship which informal conversation on an individual never happen. could in turn lead to civil court basis to assist and help the staff member There are plenty of people within the Force proceedings resulting in County Court recognise the risks should they be ready and willing to assist you within a Judgements (CCJ), Individual Voluntary approached as part of a corruption confidential framework, if you are a Agreements (IVA), Bankruptcy or other attempt. member of a Staff Association or Trade court order. If your level of debt becomes Union then please contact your Branch It will often be the case that an individual unmanageable, then you should seek Office today. employee may be saddled with advice, and guidance at the earliest If you would rather contact an external unmanageable debt through little or no opportunity. Both The Police Federation source of assistance then consider Payplan. fault of their own. Personal debt can be and Unison can assist with guidance to considered to be unmanageable when the their members in these cases. Advice is free, confidential and available level of required repayments cannot be met right now.” Richard Eccles, Federation Joint Branch through normal income streams. This Board Secretary said: - Call Payplan free on 0800 716 239 or would usually occur over a sustained period online at www.payplan.com for a quick of time causing overall debt levels to “If you feel that you are struggling to cope and easy way to get free debt advice from increase to a level beyond that which with your finances then please discuss it experienced professionals. somebody is able to pay. with somebody who can assist you with
Nationally it has been recognised that Richard Eccles, Federation Joint personal vulnerabilities like undeclared debt can be a factor in cases of corruption. Branch Board Secretary: Where a member of staff is prepared to discuss these issues openly, the risk Do not bury your diminishes considerably. All we would ask “head in the sand is that if anybody is struggling financially waiting for a Lottery at the moment then just drop us a line at the Integrity unit to explain the win, it may never circumstances. This purpose of this is to happen. allow us to assess the risk of corruption and contrary to common perception will not ”
NATIONAL DETECTIVE AWARDS
As Chair of the Police Federation National between 1st October and the 30th April therefore will only Detective Forum and a very proud serving each year starting in 2010. Nominations be eligible for North Wales Officer and someone who can be made by any member of a police inclusion for the believes he has detective blood running force within England and Wales. A year following the through his veins I would like to draw your nomination should include details of the case conclusion). attention to the new National Detective nominated party(s) and the evidence that SERVICETO Steve Williams Awards. Whilst I am currently seconded on meets the criteria for the particular award ICC Chair full time federation duties at Leatherhead I simply by letter DETECTIVES do maintain contact with my colleagues To be awarded to an individual, group or back home and am acutely aware of some DETECTIVEINVESTIGATION organisation, that in the Judgement of the of the fine investigative work being carried OFTHEYEAR PFNDF, have demonstrated a continuous out in the prevention and detection of To be awarded to an individual, or team support for the role of the Detective within crime in North Wales, thus making life back of Detective officers. That in the policing of England and Wales. Through home a safer place for communities to work judgement of the PFNDF, have this support they have shown their and live. This is of course against a back demonstrated an outstanding ability in commitment to encouraging the retention, drop of unprecedented financially hard the field of detective work within a development and/or welfare of warranted times, cut backs and without wishing to particular investigation, whilst having Detective officers. sound patronising is brought about by displayed the highest standards of a highly dedicated and hard working officers, detective officer’s skills and abilities. For competition details and entry sometimes working in isolation but form please see our documents (Any Detective investigation in England or invariably as part of a cohesive team and section on the PFNDF website. Wales is eligible to be nominated for this due credit to them. award at the conclusion of the case so that www.pfndf.org These awards shall be open for nomination appropriate details may be publicised and
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TIME TO GO - A19 AND ALL THAT After many months of uncertainty as to whether the Force would Of the 205 leaving 116 are Constables decide to use Regulation A19, of The Police Pension Regulations and 47 Sgts, all of whom provide the 1987 - viz to forcibly retire officers with 30 or more year’s frontline service to the public. Under Pensionable service, on the grounds of efficiency of the Force. The normal circumstances these officers decision was made on the 4th of January 2011 that it would be would be replaced by new recruits implemented. however this is unlikely to happen. Mike Elgin I as one of 58 officers with 30 years or more service on 30th One has to wonder how the Force will be DC Representative September 2011 was notified by the Chief able to maintain its Constable I would have to leave on or before high quality of service to the public with such a the 30th of September. The letter certainly On the one hand you are reduced frontline capacity. I know project 2011 invoked mixed emotions. On the one hand relieved that the situation + has been working long and hard on devising you are relieved that the situation has been has been resolved and you plans to enable us to continue to do so. There resolved and you can now plan ahead for the can now plan ahead for the is a lot of debate about the feasibility of such next stage of your life, be it a new career or next stage of your life, be it plans and I suppose only time will tell if they relaxing and enjoying a well earned rest. On a new career or relaxing are a success. One thing I am sure about is that the other hand you are left downcast and and enjoying a well earned no matter what, the officers on the frontline feeling those 30 years of experience and rest. On the other hand you will provide the best service they can, no matter devotion to the Service is meaningless when are left downcast and what difficulties they encounter in respect of a compared to pounds shillings and pence. feeling those 30 years of lack of resources. experience and devotion to The Chief Constable says he has not taken the I will continue in my role as Constables the Service is meaningless decision to use A19 lightly and I am sure this Federation Secretary until I’m evicted from the when compared to pounds is the case. Obviously in these difficult times building later in the year. I will leave with good shillings and pence. the Chief has to manage a reducing budget in memories of my time as a Federation the best way he sees fit. I’m sure we could all representative which has been personally very come up with other solutions to achieve the required savings but rewarding (not financially I hasten to add!). There is no doubt that none would be without pain. this year the service will be facing the greatest threat in its history, During this year’s implementation of A19 the vast majority - (41) not just to officer numbers but pay, pension and conditions of are Constables and (9) Sgts who are the frontline of the Service. service and I would urge all officers to support the Federations’ The Force plans to review matters on a half yearly basis for the work in dealing with the formidable challenges that lie ahead. next 4 years and a further 43 officers could be affected in years How lucky am I to have experienced a career that makes saying 2012-2013, 58 officers in years 2013-14 and 46 officers in years goodbye so hard. 2014-15. That is a total of 205 officers out of an establishment of around 1600.
Communication, Communication, Communication
Good communication, whether with each other or with members of the public, is everyone's business. Now a new toolkit with top tips on communicating effectively is available on the intranet. The toolkit, which is on the Corporate Communications page, is in two parts - firstly, a general overview of the key principles and secondly, a series of sections covering different types of communication with a mix of hints and tips, do's and don’ts. In the foreword to the toolkit Chief Constable Mark Polin says: "We're all working towards delivering the best possible service to the people of North Wales and the way in which we behave or speak to them, either in person or on the phone, shapes the way they think about us a police force. It doesn't matter whether you are an officer or a civilian, a volunteer or an employee, it is crucial that whenever you communicate with colleagues or members of the public you do so in an effective and engaging way. The toolkit It doesn't matter whether you are an officer or a civilian, aims to help us all improve the way we communicate with each a volunteer or an employee, it is crucial that whenever you other and with those we come into contact with in our day to day communicate with colleagues or members of the public work by describing some key communication principles and by you do so in an effective and engaging way. offering practical advice as to how to put these into practice. It is not the intention to patronise or preach, this is purely a helpful Chief Constable - Mark Polin guide that you dip in to whenever you need to."
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LIGHTATTHEENDOFTHETUNNEL At the moment there are a huge number of changes happening they take home on lap tops or continuing within force and on a national level reviews concerning pay to respond on their Blackberry whilst off and conditions as well as a review of pensions. duty. (I too am guilty of that, so cannot In respect of Inspectors locally, there is the mandatory welfare criticise too loudly on that front). It is screening taking place, as following the last national survey, important that when the government look North Wales Police Inspectors were identified as having some of at hours recorded and they see that Inspectors are apparently only working Brian Robinson the highest levels of stress in the country. Insp Board Secretary 45-55 hours a week; they see the The mandatory welfare screening conducted by the force on all potential for savings and seek to reduce Inspectors revealed that Detective Inspectors and District the numbers of Inspectors to make efficiency savings, not realising Inspectors unsurprisingly had the highest levels of stress amongst they are already working 60 hours per week as standard. all the Inspectors. The screening is being conducted again and it will be interesting to note Within North Wales Police there is to be a drastic the results this time and what actions the force Nationally the reduction in the number of managers with will introduce to protect the health of the Inspectors Central reductions in Chief Superintendents, Superintendents and Inspectors, all the work Inspecting ranks. Committee are currently being undertaken by these officers will conducting a review of Nationally the Inspectors Central Committee are still have to be done, despite the national conducting a review of working hours. It is working hours. It is bureaucracy task force. I have yet to see any recognised across the country that the long recognised across the directives from national government for any work hour’s culture is endemic. Whilst this is country that the long that we no longer have to undertake. absolutely necessary in certain circumstances hour’s culture is This work will inevitably be passed down, and such as murders or other major incidents when endemic. everyone is under pressure to protect the public much of the work will end up with the Inspectors safety, it should not be the standard practice of as it will not be appropriate for it to be passed day in, day out long hours. Already it is apparent that many forces further down the ranks. do not even meet the legal requirement of recording hours under The Inspectors Central Committee have recognised this issue and the working directive and the completion of this survey will enable they will be developing the theme of “Shooting Stars?” making forces that do not meet their legal obligations to be identified. reference to the badge of rank for Inspectors (the Bath Stars). They North Wales Police of course is not one those forces as we have believe that there is a misinterpretation of the 1994 Agreement our duty management system. However, sometimes Inspectors can regarding Inspectors hours and they will be issuing guidance to be their own worst enemy in not recording their hours correctly. challenge the long hours culture. I have been made aware previously of Inspectors being told to It will be interesting to see if the new functional policing model reduce the hours they were recording as working as they were for North Wales reduces the workload for Inspectors or as in the breaching the working time directive. Of note was not that they old joke, “I thought I saw a light at the end of the tunnel, but it were being told to reduce the hours they were recording not the just turned out to be some joker with a torch bringing me more hours they were working. This of course does not include work work.”
NEWLYAPPOINTEDFEDERATIONCIDREP I am grateful for this opportunity to introduce myself as the I also play snooker in my local league but new Police Federation CID Sergeants Representative and to tell those of you bored enough to follow the you that I am looking forward to representing my colleagues results will have noted that the decline in over the next three years. my form is directly proportional to the For those of you that don’t know me, I have 21 years of service in onset of old age. the force and over the past 15 years or so I have been a detective. Enough about me – can I take this chance DS Dave Jones I have been posted to CID offices in Llandudno to recommend to those CID Representative Colwyn Bay and St Asaph and I also have detectives amongst you I am looking forward experience of working in a Divisional Source Unit and also those who have an interest in CID to representing my and Level 2 Operations. In 2008 I applied for a matters to visit and register with the Police colleagues over the role in Headquarters Special Branch, and was Federation National Detective Forum lucky enough to get a job I had coveted for some next three years. www.pfndf.org - a website whose aim is to time. represent the concerns and progress the Some may think that I wanted to work with my wife Sandra, who interests of detectives across England and is the Nationalities Officer based in the same office, but let me Wales, not only in terms of their welfare, but also their efficiency assure you that this is far from the truth! Sandra and I have two and the effectiveness of their role. children who attend Eirias High School in Colwyn Bay; outside of For contact details of all elected Federation reps please visit work, my interests include sampling red wine and keeping the the Federation Intranet site. excess pounds at bay by cycling and using the gym in HQ.
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THEROLEOFTHESERGEANT– WHATAREWEGOING TOLOOKLIKETHISTIMENEXTYEAR?
By the time this edition of Focus Link is released you will all Another issue that will become apparent know where you are going to be based around the Force in as the weeks go by is ‘have we got the what has been described as the greatest change of working right amount of staff in the right places’ practices North Wales Police have ever seen. debate. Have they calculated correctly, is the ACR going to take 40% of the calls Sam Roberts You will know from the updates you have received from the Sgt Board Chair Federation since the infancy of 2011+ that we have been very away from frontline, we don’t know until vocal about our concerns at all ranks but as Chair of the Sergeants everything goes live. My main worry is Board I personally feel that we are the rank that is going to be the that we appear to have moved away from Desirable Staffing levels most affected by the changes. and that we are going to insist that single crewing is the norm. Whilst this may be Throughout the conversations we have had You will know from the sensible for the majority of calls during the with 2011+ we have constantly asked about updates you have received day, in my recent experience covering response, the finer detail of the whole operational view, from the Federation since our busiest times are between 5pm and where the resilience is going to come from for midnight, hence you may see two or three cars the teams and who is going to lead these the infancy of 2011+ that we have been very vocal going to the same event when one double teams. There is no doubt that there will be NO crewed would probably have been sufficient. about our concerns at all resilience particularly for the Response Put this together with the distances officers ranks but as Chair of the Sergeants, the 2011+ view is that, should are going to be travelling at high speeds to someone have some leave or go sick( how very Sergeants Board I back up their colleagues who they know are on dare they!!), then someone from the rota will personally feel that we are their own. ‘act up.’ the rank that is going to There are so many questions and we as a be the most affected by That’s all well and good but what about the Board accept that most of the answers will space that they leave, there is no-one else to the changes. only become apparent as things progress. backfill the response PC spot. That acting What we are asking is that you ALL ensure that Sergeant will have no support, there are no any teething problems are noted and passed to other Sergeants working alongside them and they will be making your local reps or via the office. If we know what they are then we most of their decisions from behind a computer desk rather than may be able to help sort them out. being out at the scenes with their staff. That is unfair on them and on the staff that they are supervising. Also another small reminder about the ‘near miss’ forms. It is vital that they are used if there are any potentially dangerous events Not only will Sergeants be doing their normal day to day duties that officers have attended and it is only through good luck and but you will also now be expected to manage the HR functions management that they are dealt with and officer safety is that were taken off us sometime ago to make it more maintained. consistent!!!!! Marry that with doing the duties on Northgate because DMS appears to be going out of the window and throw We are a ‘Can do’ organisation and I have no doubt that we will in there a couple of shifts covering Custody and the role has do what is being asked of us. Good luck and please remember trebled in size with no-one to take any of the strain from you. your Fed reps are there to be hassled….I may regret saying that!!!! Where are YOU going to go for support? Thanks, Sam Roberts
Critical Force policies ‘need to know’ will make them simpler
The ‘need to know’ scheme is a weekly tool to encourage discussion on key policy issues; Its aim is to target areas of high RISK - low frequency events.
R - Raise awareness and assist decision making in critical situations
I - Increase public safety
S - Simplify the learning process to ensure staff are protected
K - Key questions answered
Look out for the ‘need to know’ scenarios and questions from your supervisors. If you have any queries please contact Governance and Policy Officer Lee Bailey on Ext: 05350
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PROJECT 2011+ PROGRAMME UPDATE New Local Policing Areas The new Inspector led policing areas depicted right have been designed and divided in order to reflect like policing problems within a given area. Each area has been made up of a number of wards whilst taking heed of the community safety partnership boundaries, demand analysis, in respect of crime and anti-social behaviour, as well as the geographical size of the area. Each Local policing Inspector will be supported by a dedicated Sergeant, and together they will be responsible for Neighbourhood policing and Investigation. Each county will be headed by a Chief Inspector who will have overall responsibility for Neighbourhood policing and Investigation whilst working together with partner agencies.
Project 2011+ Non-Operations Team Following the work that has been taking place to review HR, Finance and Training, Learning & Development, a new governance & operating structure will be implemented from 4th May 2011 encompassing these areas. As well as making a cost saving, the aim is to improve and make more efficient the service provided to the rest of the organisation by these areas.
What are the key changes? Training: K Governance, management and delivery of non-specialist K There will no longer be individual transactional HR or Finance training will, over the next 2 years, migrate from Teams based on each Division - the administrative processes Divisions to the Head of PSG but not until it has been within these functions will be centralised at Force evaluated, planned and timelines agreed. Headquarters in a Shared Service Facility (SSF). K Governance of all Force Training will continue through K Transactional elements of corporate HR and Finance will also the Training Development Programme Group which is move into the SSF. chaired by the Head of PSG. K The administration of training will become part of the SSF K A new centralised Training, Learning and Development apart from the administration of specialist training Department will be established at the Driving School. within OSG. This department will pro-actively support and ensure K Key functional expert staff will operate locally to provide the local delivery of training. advice, guidance and support to Local Inspectors and K Administration of training will be re-designed to Command Teams. operate centrally within the SSF. K A Self Service solution will be created operating via the intranet where you can find advice and support, policies, Human Resources: forms, step by step guides and the answers to Frequently Asked Questions. K A new HR operating model will allow local supervisors to assume greater responsibility & autonomy to deal K Any other day to day queries not answered by the Self Service solution will be dealt with by contacting a Helpdesk in the SSF with HR matters. covering HR, Finance and Training, Learning & Development. K The Head of PSG will assume governance & management of all HR staff, policies and operating K The concept of ‘Self Service’ will also be expanded by using the current Northgate Web Portal (through which you access practices across the Force. your payslips) to include changing the way staff will order K HR processes are being re-engineered to reduce uniform, claim expenses and submit overtime. bureaucracy.
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K HR staff will be governed centrally, but some functional K The Force will increase the use of Purchasing Cards to pay expert roles will operate locally so as to support Command suppliers so as to reduce the amount of invoices and the Teams. This includes the HR Business Partners who will work resulting administrative burden. with Command Teams on strategic people management K Many paper based finance processes (such as payment of issues such as succession planning and talent management. overtime) will be replaced with electronic processes so as to K A team of HR & Training Support Officers will be established reduce bureaucracy. to support the Business Partners to provide a HR service K Authorising requirements for uniforms/stores will be across the Force area. redesigned so as to reduce bureaucracy. Finance: K Finance transactional staff will be based centrally within the SSF, but some roles will operate locally so as to support K Management of devolved budgets will be re-designed Command Teams. This includes the Business Managers who resulting in less bureaucracy and administration. will work with Command Teams so as to ensure corporate, coherent management of budgets.
Lease vehicle review A review of personal issue lease vehicles was undertaken by 2011+ and the following recommendations have been agreed.
1. The current policy should be withdrawn and a new policy out an assessment of the most economical mid range car’s prepared by legal services, fleet department and P2011+. available giving consideration to environmental, safety and operational suitability in that assessment. Following this, 2. Personal issue vehicles should only be issued in the future central finance should assess the whole life cost of the against strict and robust business case parameters, under options and the payment methods to ensure the most scrutiny of the policy owner the Director of Finance and effective purchase proposal is supported which will then Resources. inform what cars will be available to staff and over what Personal issue vehicles will be made against the below period of time. proposed criteria; 4. The essential user scheme is not managed appropriately K It is cheaper for the Force to provide a vehicle than to resulting in inefficiency and un-necessary revenue pay the individual casual/essential user mileage. expenditure. An essential user policy needs to be developed detailing qualifying criteria or with applications managed by central K Specific operational roles as mandated by ACPO finance. A full review of current recipients will be A review of all 49 current personal issue lease car owners will undertaken. take place against the above criteria. If the business case is not made out, the officers/staff will be served with 6 months notice of withdrawal. 3. It is recommended that staff and officers who qualify for a vehicle, will be entitled to an un-marked mid range car. It is further recommended that the fleet department should carry
A19 You will be aware that in September 2010 the North Wales Police Authority agreed to allow the Force to use Regulation A19 of the Police Pensions Regulations 1987. The decision to actually implement Reg A19 was taken by Chief officers on 4th January 2011 which means that officers who have or will attain 30 years service between 4th January and 30 September 2011 including officers on 30+ schemes, will be required to leave the force. There is an agreed process for this to happen which is available to all HR managers and posted on the PSG website. This decision will affect up to 57 officers between now and the 30th September 2011 and will be managed with support from Human Resources, along with the Police Federation and Superintendents' Association, who have been engaged throughout the process. The business case for utilizing Reg A19 will be subject of regular review to assess whether continuance is necessary. The decision to implement Reg A19 has not been taken lightly and we will work with all concerned to ensure that they are treated with dignity and respect. The Chief constable Mark Polin said “I will do everything in my power to see the Force and those who work for it, through this difficult period, in the best way that I can”.
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OPERATIONAL SERVICES GROUP - TACKLING SERIOUS AND ORGANISED CRIMINALITY DCI JOHN HANSON In January one of North Wales' most notorious criminals John collected the drugs from Liverpool. DI Lloyd said 'the cocaine we Damon Gizzi (pictured centre) pleaded guilty to conspiring to seized was 82% pure which indicates it was very close to the supply Class A controlled drugs at Caernarfon Crown Court, the source of importation. I have no doubt that this would have been culmination of an investigation code named Operation Thunder adulterated before it was sold on the streets of North Wales, and lasting approximately 12 months and conducted by staff within it would have had a potential street value in excess of the Operational Services Group. £160,000.00' Gizzi, the head of an organised crime group based predominantly The success of Operation Thunder is the latest in a series of in Rhyl, was responsible for successful investigations organising the collection and that have been progressed delivery of cocaine from This investigation by the Level 2 Operations Liverpool to North Wales. Department. progressed effectively Along with seven of his In August 2010 and associates and trusted group due to the quality of the working with Border members, they pleaded information that locally Agency officials officers guilty to offences committed based officers smashed an international between August 2009 and were submitting. drugs ring who were April 2010. Two further My colleagues in the importing cocaine from members of the group intelligence arena were Jamaica. Two West pleaded not guilty but were able to develop this into Midlands based criminals convicted after a trial lasting accurate intelligence with connections in two weeks. All ten members which in turn presented Jamaica were arranging of this group will be excellent evidence the delivery of cocaine sentenced at Caernarfon gathering opportunities. disguised as hair products Crown Court on March 3rd to a number of addresses 2011. in the Connahs Quay and DI Gerwyn Lloyd the Senior Deeside areas. Five Investigating Officer individuals from the acknowledged the input and Deeside area were assistance he had been recruited to receive the given from officers and staff parcels in return for cash. across the force area. 'This In January all seven investigation progressed pleaded guilty at Mold effectively due to the quality of the information that locally based Crown Court and the two main instigators received lengthy officers were submitting. My colleagues in the intelligence arena custodial sentences for importing class A controlled drugs. Judge were able to develop this into accurate intelligence which in turn Niclas Parry, sitting at Mold Crown Court, told them: "Together, presented excellent evidence gathering opportunities'. In April you oiled the wheels that facilitated the passing of class A drugs 2010 following one such opportunity, approximately 1 kilo gram into the UK. This was carefully thought out, well planned, of cocaine (pictured above) was seized from a courier for the group, designed to make detection as difficult as possible, so that cocaine who was stopped driving his taxi back into North Wales having could be brought into the UK for distribution".
ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE DEPARTMENT CUSTOMERSERVICEEXCELLENCE–CONTINUEDSUCCESSINTHESECHALLENGINGTIMES As part of the ongoing commitment to Customer Service witnesses may be intimidated, or may have difficulty attending Excellence, AJD have just completed their first annual review and court because of practical reasons (transport etc). The leaflet demonstrated continuing compliance with the CSE standards. The outlines what help is available and gives reassurance that people Assessment Report commented that the department has improved should not hesitate to ask the police for help. Another initiative its service over the past 12 months an example of this is the highlighted is the work undertaken with the LCJB Mental health improvements made to the Speed Awareness course provision, Criminal Justice Liaison Group to support ex-service personnel which has led to people being able to take courses in a number of entering the criminal justice system: a leaflet has been produced, locations across North Wales and beyond, people being provided staff have had awareness training and links have been made with with BSL interpretation when taking the course and people being appropriate support agencies. allowed to take the course individually should their circumstances Administration of Justice Department’s ACPO lead Mike Parkin require this. acknowledged the success by saying “Congratulations to you and An area of Compliance Plus is the achievements of the department the team – a testament to your hard work and effort, even during in identifying customer need at first point of contact. The new such a difficult time. Please pass on both my thanks, and advice leaflet for victims and witnesses which acknowledges that congratulations to all of the team”.
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PALLISA, UGANDA NOVEMBER 2010 INSP MARK CHESTERS
‘Mind that Child’ Captain Mark Chesters of the Military 1,500 school children who are in a frenzy; they have not seen a Stabilisation Support Group shouts to the driver ‘Keezer’ as they white person before. The team are then met by a 100 strong speed along to the next village the dust community delegation, the diversity of flailing up from the rust red clay packed the group is compounding as is their road. Keezer beeps his horn and the reception. Mark addresses the group child who can only be around three through an interpreter explaining that years of age steps back onto the verge the team are there working on behalf with his siblings and into the cassava of the Office of the Prime Minister for plants, he is only wearing a dirty Uganda, assessing and reviewing their tattered striped vest that is several sizes District Disaster Management Plan. too big which is hanging off one of his Mark tells them that their visit will shoulders. The child looks back form part of their final report. A lot of transfixed at Mark who smiles and information for their task is gleaned waves, the child’s face breaks into a from the meeting. huge grin and he waves back and On to the area that has suffered a recent What is ingrained in Mark’s memory of shouts ‘JAMBO MZUNGO’ (hello white 3 hour hailstorm disaster affecting 20,000 this humbling experience is the man), probably the first white face he people where crops and livestock have people’s honesty, togetherness, sense has seen. been devastated. 6 months earlier their of humour and their hope for the As they travel past the village a mother crops were destroyed by drought. The team future in what back home would not he is leading enter the school grounds and is sat outside her thatched circular mud are met by 1,500 school children who are in just be seen as a disaster but a daubed home bathing her child in a a frenzy; they have not seen a white catastrophe. The reality is that in bowl of water, having carried that person before. coming months the community will be water several miles from the bore hole starving. in a yellow 25kg plastic jerry can. They Onto a village where 3 widows who look at the vehicle going past and wave are HIV positive are met and their 15 back smiling. Mark is normally dealing children, their house was completely with child protection issues in North destroyed in the recent storm. The Wales on a daily basis but this is house is being rebuilt due to the another world, he thinks about his wife selling of some of their land. The and three children back home and how widows are spoken to by Mark and his he wished they could view these scenes team in a sensitive and empathetic through their own eyes. manner and their plight documented. On to the area that has suffered a What leadership and managerial skills recent 3 hour hailstorm disaster can Mark take back to North Wales affecting 20,000 people where crops and livestock have been police from this visit to the Jewel in Africa... I think the audience devastated. 6 months earlier their crops were destroyed by drought. can answer that. The team he is leading enter the school grounds and are met by
NORTH WALES POLICE FEDERATION Lottery draw results: Congratulations to the winners! If you would like to join the force lottery please OFFICE CONTACT DETAILS: email me and I will forward the details asap. Many thanks for your continued support. Ian Davies, (Business Systems Unit) Ext 3833 Address: 311 Abergele Road, Old Colwyn LL29 9YF. October 2010 B72587 K L Hunt £667.62 Phone: 01492 805 400 Ext: 05400 B71016 D H Lewis £347.71 C11498* G W Williams £208.63 Fax: 01492 804 434 C10510* A J Assiter-Tuppen £166.90 Email: [email protected] November 2010 B60403 C A Redmayne £675.55 B90234 C W Hughes £351.85 Sarah Bray 01492 805 400 Ext: 05400 C10539* A T Jones £211.11 B92103 L J M Evans £168.88 Nicky Williams 01492 805 400 Ext: 05400 December 2010 Chris Warner 01492 805 402 Ext: 05402 B70955 Robert Davies £680.24 B71691 John Richardson £354.29 Richard Eccles 01492 805 403 Ext: 05403 B72348 Gareth Roberts £212.57 Mel Jones 01492 805 404 Ext: 05404 C10766* D Edwards £170.06 *retired
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SATISFACTION & DISSATISFACTION PROCESS
The new process for recording contacts around Dissatisfaction We looked at the best way to deal with these contacts, and decided and Satisfaction is due to go live on the 21st March. that it made sense if they all get recorded onto RMS. It’s the system that most of you are using everyday. The majority of these contacts This process has been thoroughly consulted upon with the come into the Force Control Room, these calls will be screened to Federation and the policy and procedure has now been ratified. the staff in the newly formed Investigation Support Team (IST), Many people contact North Wales Police to express satisfaction or removing this work from front line supervisors. They will speak with dissatisfaction with the service they have received, some of them the member of the public, hopefully resolve the issue there and are happy but the reality is that more people will contact us to tell then and record the contact onto RMS. The entry will explain what us they are unhappy. We are doing a good job, but it is a fact of the contact was about and what has been done to resolve the issue, life that you can’t please all of the people all of the time, BUT we or say if the Supervisor needs to further action it to rectify the need to try to. It’s what the public expect. We need to identify why contact. Supervisors will always be notified via a task being sent to they are unhappy and try to resolve it with the overall aim being their Area Unit, of any contacts recorded for their staff. The organisational learning. The existing unstructured approach is not Supervisors will have the final say as to whether or not anything geared towards this. Some contacts get recorded a lot do not. further needs to be done in respect of the contact, for example We all want to reduce complaints made against staff. We want to speaking with the officer concerned or making a PDR entry. make it easier to resolve them. We need to deal with the person At the moment these contacts get recorded routinely as complaints quickly, find out what the issue is, rectify it, stop it turning into a against police on ICAD, because we don’t have anything in place complaint and LEARN FROM IT. to deal with the low level reports of dissatisfaction, such as ‘The From the 21st March these contacts will be recorded on RMS as officer hasn’t told me what’s happening with my crime’ or ‘I didn’t either a non crime occurrence of ‘Dissatisfaction’ or ‘Satisfaction’, or like the way he spoke to me’. Quite often what they want is an if an occurrence already exists an entry will be made onto the explanation as to why something has or hasn’t been done. Occurrence Enquiry Log, under the type of ‘Dissatisfaction’ or The opening code of ‘Complaint Against Police’ on ICAD has ‘Satisfaction’, using the pre defined text entries. been removed and replaced with Dissatisfaction or Satisfaction.
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AIR OBSERVER GOES A LONG WAY FOR HELP FOR HEROES
PC 1949 Paul Davies of the Air Operations Unit took part in the 2010 Snowdonia Marathon on October 30th to raise money for I under took a crash the charity Help for Heroes, raising £1250. 10 week marathon training schedule, As a rugby forward more built for comfort than speed, I under took doing many lonely a crash 10 week marathon training schedule, doing many lonely miles between miles between Old Colwyn and around the Great Orme in what Old Colwyn and seemed like endless rain. around the Great Orme This turned out to be excellent training, as come the day, rain it did in what seemed like and lots of it. endless rain. I ran the London marathon in 1990 in a time of 4:15 and figured I am writing this to say a massive THANK YOU to everyone who twenty years on and a few pounds heavier I would make a time of sponsored me for the event and assisted me with encouragement around 5:15 with the hills. and covering for me on the day to take part. You know who you are. I was made up on the day to come in with a time of 4:47 assisted I have to say getting up for early shift on the day after was by a massive hail stone shower and then monsoon rain as I climbed something of an achievement in itself. This year I must take the over from Waunfawr to the finish in Llanberis town. next day off……..
ANGELA’S LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCE SPECIAL "SBECS"
After losing an inspiring A budding actor has found almost 7 stones over a year himself a special role with Angela Bartlett of OCD has North Wales Police. received the accolade of Slimming World Woman of 18-year-old Gruffydd Owen from the Year 2010 for the Flint Anglesey who stars in S4C's teen Branch. Angela is now soap ‘Rownd a Rownd' as Gareth reaping the benefits of a ‘Sbecs' has taken up a role as a healthy and fitter lifestyle. Special Constable with the Force. A more confident Angela Gruffydd, who is a former pupil who still aims to lose more of Ysgol Syr Thomas Jones in I've made some weight shares her Amlwch joined North Wales great friends and experience with a view to Police in October 2010 and has I'm still in contact helping others. been on the beat since with those who ‘I have been following the Slimming World diet which consists of December. joined on my following Red, Green and Extra Easy Days, Red days consist of "Next year I'll be studying Law intake - we eating protein and very little carbohydrates, green days consist of at Cardiff University and I regularly meet for mostly carbohydrates and minimal protein and extra easy is decided to join the Specials as it a catch up. where you can mix the two days together, I also attend the local would give me a flavour as to group in Flint. I mainly follow the Green day due to being a what a career with the police vegetarian, as well as following the diet I also exercise on a weekly could offer me," said Gruffydd. "I absolutely love the role - basis comprising going to the gym, horse riding and swimming. especially the late shifts. After completing my A levels last A year a go I would have struggled to even walk partly up Moel year I decided to take a gap year to fund my degree by Fammau now I walk to the top followed by a walk round continuing to work at Rownd a Rownd. I work with Rownd a loggerheads on a regular basis. Rownd on average two days a week, thus giving me plenty of spare time, enabling me to work at least a couple of shifts a It was a complete shock to me to have won the title for the group. week" I was as you can imagine extremely happy and also really touched that my fellow group members thought so much of me to Gruffydd, who has been with Rownd a Rownd for the past six nominate me to win the title. years currently works shifts from Llangefni and Holyhead, although he covers other parts of the island. I feel so much better for losing the weight and feel like a new person now. "I worked on New Years Eve which was a very busy night and I ended up making a couple of arrests. I was meant to finish “Angela has worked really hard and has truly earned the title of at 3am but the jobs came in thick and fast and I ended up Slimming World Women of the Year. Her story and fantastic working until 7:30am, the adrenaline carried me through till success is a real inspiration to her friends and colleagues in the end. I've made some great friends and I'm still in contact OCD” said Superintendent Simon Shaw, Divisional Commander with those who joined on my intake- we regularly meet for a of OCD. catch up."
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SPORTS SECTION
DIRTY COPS FESTIVAL FLY FISHING SECTION 13TH-15TH MAY 2010 COED Y BRENIN The section is open to all serving and retired members of the organisation. We have four ‘get together’ days through the season where we fly fish for trout from a boat, at venues throughout the • Bike workshop (Free again!!!) region. • Latest Demo Bikes (Orange/Lapierre) I would like to stress that they are not competition days, participating anglers do not have to be competition anglers. • Muc-Off - Clean Zone The present members are eager to welcome new faces to our section, • Big Saturday Night BBQ & Social please don’t wait to be invited just turn up for a days fishing, or feel free to contact me to discuss. • Dual Slalom Dates for this years • Free Tuition/Guiding event are:
• MTB Celebs!! (Dependant on World Cup Race dates) 14th April @ Brenig • Fun Events 12th May @ Trawsfynydd • Skills Area 7th July @ Talyllyn • Night Zone & More 15th September @ Brenig
Anyone interested please make contact with TPS 1688 Colin Jones, [email protected] or 07890 524 742 during the week before the arranged dates so that the correct number of boats can be booked. All those participating must be contributing to the sports and MORE INFO AT social fund. [email protected]
PSUK POWERLIFTING CHAMPIONSHIPS 2010
The PSUK combined wrestling and Powerlifting championships were hosted by Cheshire Police at their new HQ at Winsford on Saturday the 20th November 2010. The wrestling was divided into two categories the submission and freestyle. The Powerlifting event attracted 23 lifters from all over the country. Tim Willsdon from the Conflict Management Unit competed in the unequipped 125kg class. This was his first competion for the Police and came away with first place. The competition catered for equipped and unequipped lifting. The categories are arranged by body weight from 60kg class to 125kg plus. There are three disciplines. The squat, the bench press and the deadlift. His results were 195kg squat, 140kg bench press and 255kg deadlift. Markus Hughes also from the Conflict Management Unit competed in the under 96 kg category in both the submission and freestyle wrestling events. Jamie Roberts and Jethro Christie were also due to compete but had to pull out at the last minute due to injury. There was a good turnout especially in the submission wrestling which appears to have risen in popularity. Markus achieved a 3rd place in the freestyle and a 4th in the submission wrestling. If anyone wants to try Judo on a Wednesday night 7 – 8.30pm or MMA aerobic session on Friday evenings, contact Mark Ord on 07837409243 / ext 04008 or for the powerlifting contact Tim Willsdon. He thoroughly enjoyed it and was supported by all the other lifters on the day.
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WESTERN WARRIORS Kung Fu Section The Western Warriors netball team have been kitted out with new team shirts, skirts, jumpers and tracksuits thanks to funding from Bikesafe and the Women's Association. The Kung Fu club, now in its 36th year has enjoyed an exciting 6 months during which new junior and adult classes at HQ have added to those already running at Wrexham. All of the classes have been well attended and in the first HQ class of the New Year, 25 junior members aged from 4 to 11, took part in their first grading. What a fantastic group of kids – their progress has been astounding. The adult classes have also welcomed new members, some in their teens & others a fair bit older! All of them have said that they’ve always wanted to have a go at something like this & that they’re really glad they took the plunge. The kids absolutely love it - their effort & concentration is amazing. It’s never too late to have a go & to enjoy doing kung fu – the atmosphere is fun & friendly. The hardest bit is turning up for the 1st time. New students can turn up and have a go (or just watch initially) at any time. Give it a try, you’ll love it – and it’s free!
Wrexham Class – Tuesdays 6 till 7 - Juniors, 7 till 9 - Adults HQ Class – Thursdays 6 till 7 - Juniors, 7 till 9 - Adults
Captain, PC Nia Roberts, from the Roads Policing Unit, said:
We are extremely grateful to Paul Cheshire “from Bikesafe, the Women's Association and the Force Sports Association for their continued support.” The team, which was formed a year ago, is open to all female officers or staff. They play on Wednesday night at Penygroes Leisure Centre and train at 7pm each Friday at Plas Arthur Leisure Centre, Llangefni. For further information, please contact: Anyone interested in joining should contact Nia on 84473 Steve 07716 864 908, Phil 07786 008 534 or Vice-Captain, Caroline Roberts, Western CSI, on 70838. Rachel 07795 304 761 or Chris 07554 949 378.
North Wales Police Crown Green Bowling Club
The Club use the HQ Green and play in the Colwyn Bay and The competition is open to serving Llandudno Wednesday League. We also have Club Police Officers, Police Staff and Competitions during the season which runs from April until Retired Staff who are members of the September. Practice night is from 6pm every Monday and all Sports Association. are welcome to come along and try the game with no For further information please contact: obligation to join. We have spare woods at the Clubhouse. Dave Leech at Colwyn Bay Police Station The Chief Constables Cup is held every year with the four semi on 01492 804961, finalists being eligible to play in the PSUK National Championships. The Chief Constables Cup was won in 2010 by John Edwards, ACPO Driver on Mike Roberts of Mold. 07792 705212 or The 2011 Chief Constables Cup will be held at the Police HQ Robin Mailer at Youth Green commencing at 2.00pm on Sunday 12th June 2011. Justice on 01492 523512.
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LOCAL NARPO NEWS – NEWYDDION NARPO
DENBIGH BRANCH Holywell; Colin & Amanda Dobbins, 750 004 to confirm. Wrexham; Elwyn & Gwynneth Roberts, The timing and venue format of the The Annual Wrexham Christmas Lunch St. Asaph; Chris & Sandra Corcoran, Gwynedd Branch AGM will this year (open to all those who have served at Wrexham; John & Susan Hanahoe, be changed. The meeting will be held at Wrexham) was again held at the Belmont Graianrhyd, Mold and Paul & Kim Firth, 7.00 p.m. on the evening of Friday, 20th Hotel, Wrexham, on 16th December, Llangollen. 2010, with forty former colleagues in May, 2011, at the Split Willow Hotel, attendance. The occasion was enjoyed SUMMER TRIP - Llanfairfechan, where the meeting will by all, who renewed old acquaintances Confirm if trip is still on! encompass a Social Event. amid an excellent meal. (Thank you, A Summer Trip to the Kingdom of A warm welcome is extended to Colin, for yet again organising this Northumbria and the Scottish Borders Wives and Widow Members. popular event). between 6-10th June, 2011, will cost It is essential that those intimating £350 per person (£40.00 Single Supp - *PLEASE NOTE - The next DENBIGH attending the function forward their £18.80 Tax (incl. of Tax). BRANCH meeting (Annual General names in good time, thereby enabling Meeting) will be held at the Village Hall, The price is inclusive of “Door to door” Secretary Trefor (Tel. 01248 750 004) Llanbedr, Ruthin, on Wednesday, 13th Coach Travel, 4 Nights’ Accommodation, to verify the attendance figures and April, 2011. However, on this occasion a 4 Days’ Dinner and Breakfast at the 250 facilitate ease of arranging the catering new format will be tried when members years old “Three Star” Blue Bell Hotel, requirements. will first meet at the nearby Griffin Hotel Belford, Admission to Alnwick Gardens Advance notice is given of the at 12 noon to partake of a meal (for (Home of the Duke and Duchess of CHRISTMAS LUNCH to be held on 15th 12.30pm) as per Menu. They will then Northumberland) and Admission to December, 2011. There will be further attend the meeting (scheduled for 2.00 Floors Castle. p.m.) at the Village Hall, Llanbedr. circulations nearer the date. (Mark your MOVED ADDRESS? Diary!) A warm welcome is extended to New Members O. Stanley ROBERTS & HAVE YOU INFORMED THE BRANCH Best wishes are extended to members Lilwen, Ruthin. SECRETARY AND HUW TRAINOR AT Elfed Roberts, James “Jim” O. Jones, HQ FINANCE DEPARTMENT? Hugh Parry Jones and Hywel Griffith Those of you who knew or worked with whom we are pleased to announce are IT IS ESSENTIAL YOU DO SO TO Ex-PC Cecil Edwards (Denbighshire recovering from recent illnesses. Constabulary – Motor Cyclist), AVOID THE PROBLEMS THAT MAY BE Rhosllanerchrugog, will be saddened to SO CAUSED! hear of his demise on 19.12.2010. “Cec” WEEKEND TRIP - Confirm if trip is still on! BEREAVEMENTS owned Tan-y-Clawdd Motors for many years; was a loyal friend of the Police; Interested in a Weekend Trip to Belgium Ex-Sgt 850 Jim CHALLINOR (Flints) on patron of Rhos Choir and formerly on 30th September – 3rd October, 15.8.2010 2011, (3 nights) visiting Ghent and assisted in the running of the Stiwt Theatre Ex-PC 618 John Lloyd HUGHES Ypres? Coach travel will be via the in the village. (Denbigh), Colwyn Bay, on 20.11.2010 Eurotunnel. Accommodation will be at the Sylvia DAVIES (Wrexham) extends her Novotel Leper Centrum Flanders Fields – Mrs. Mary THOMAS (Flints), Halkyn, on sincere gratitude to all Denbigh Branch in close proximity to the Market Square, 24.11.2010. Wife of Ex-PC 178 Ronald Members for donations in memory of Flanders Fields Mudeum and the Menin Thomas. David “Dai” William 548 Davies ; the Gate (Last Post sounded daily). Mrs. Miriam DAVIES 86 Yrs. (Flints), sum total of £1,600 being donated to Rhyl, on 6.12.2010. Wife of Ex-Ch Insp Nightingale House, Wrexham. The Christmas Lunch held at the Stamford Gate Hotel, Holywell, on 16th December, Ernest Davies. Best wishes are extended to Grenville 2010, was again this year a resounding Ex-Sgt 760 Stephen WILSON, Ruthin, “50” JONES (formerly of Denbigh success, with those attending savouring on 10.12.2010 and now of Wrexham) and Hugh “Trains an enjoyable cuisine amongst convivial - 587” WILLIAMS, Llandudno, who have and entertaining company. Mrs. Grace Pearce WHITE (Flints), recently undergone surgery and Buckley, on 23.12.2010 hospitalisation. Mrs. Margaret OWEN (Gwynedd) 98 SEND GWYN (SECRETARY) YOUR E- GWYNEDD BRANCH Yrs, Llanllechid, on 17.1.2011. Widow of MAIL ADDRESS TO: [email protected] The annual PORTMEIRIONLUNCH PC 68 Evan Owen (died in 1944). will be held on the 9th June, 2011. “Our sincere condolences and Do not assume that the Secretary FLINTS BRANCH deepest sympathies are extended to has your names. To ensure your place all the bereaved families and NEW MEMBERS: Ifor & Monica Jones, is secured, contact Trefor on Tel. 01248 friends”.
NARPO CONTRIBUTION TO FOCUS LINK BY GWYN ROBERTS MOBILE 07720 532585 E-MAIL: [email protected]
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59121 Dyluniwyd gan Heddlu Gogledd Cymru. Ffôn: 01492 804941. Designed by North Wales Police. Tel: 01492 804941.