WINTER 2019

FORUMThe magazine of Police Federation

Federation celebrates centenary - see Pages 6 to 9

www.gwentpf.org l Representing l Influencing l Negotiating Helping the Police Family financially No1 CopperPot C R E D I T U N I O N

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CONTENTS Helping the Police Family financially No1 CopperPot View from the chair 3 View from the chair C R E D I T U N I O N Financial worries affecting almost half By Maria Henry, chair of Gwent Police that the police service is not just talking about our officers 4 Federation wellbeing but is actually acting on wellbeing. Our Force has always been better than most in Wellbeing day attracts 200 people 5 s this is the last edition of our members’ this area, I think, and we have recently had a Chair issues statement on pensions 5 Amagazine for this year, it seemed very successful wellbeing day (see Page 5). This appropriate to look back on the events of 2019. will be followed up with another day in 2020 so POLICE FEDERATION CENTENARY It has, of course, been a very busy year for I hope we – and other forces - can build on CELEBRATIONS the police service as, once again, officers have these. ‘I’m on your side and I’ve got your back’ 6 done their utmost to serve and protect their By contrast, in looking back over 2019, it communities despite seemingly ever- has not been difficult to identify some notable Stress-free savings and loans Is it time for a Royal Commission on increasing demand and reduced resources. low points. We all feel it when a police policing? 7 From a Force perspective, we have seen big colleague is killed in the line of duty. But I think changes at the top with a new Chief the tragic death of PC Andrew Harper of Policing priorities considered in panel We are here to look after you, so sit back and relax Constable, DCC and ACC all taking their posts deeply affected us all. Our session 7 during the year. thoughts remain with his widow, his parents, ‘What matters most’: officers give their Within the Federation branch, there have his family, his friends and, of course, his Thames views of Federation support 9 been changes too with Vickie Day retiring as Valley colleagues. secretary and Nicky Ryan taking over. You can Sadly, on 21 August 2019 we lost PC 1792 Pledge on officer assaults sentences 9 read more about Nicky on Pages 10 and 11. Rhys Kelleher. Rhys was only 28 when he Save as little as £5 per month directly from your Nicky gets to grips with secretary role 10 For me, the year has had the usual mix of passed and had been an officer since 2017. ups and downs. Despite being a member of Gwent Police for a payroll. With our easy access savings account ‘It feels right to give something back’ 11 On an extremely positive note, I cannot tell short time, he made a huge impact on Annalea keen to help colleagues 11 you how proud I was to accompany our very everyone he worked with. you can withdraw without penalties. own PC Kelda Griffiths to this year’s national Unfortunately, 2019 also saw another rise Group Insurance Scheme - can you Police Bravery Awards. The bravery awards in the number of assaults on police officers and afford not to be in it? 12 ceremony is one of the real highlights of the there seemed to be an increase in vehicles policing year, giving us the opportunity to pay being used as a weapon against officers with Prince of pays tribute to tribute to colleagues who put their lives on the several receiving serious injuries in incidents You can repay loans direct from your payroll. fallen officers 15 line to protect the public. which could so easily have resulted in further Why not visit our loan calculator to see how Could policing come under the Welsh Kelda fought off a frenzied attack despite fatalities. Government? 15 already having her arm in plaster from a Thankfully, we are now hearing noises much your repayments would be? previous assault and, despite her clear bravery, about even tougher sentences for those who said she was overwhelmed to be named as assault police officers and other emergency one of the seven regional bravery award service workers along with better legal Cover photo: City of London officers winners. For me, it was a real high point of protections for police drivers. dressed in replica 1919 uniforms what has in many ways been a tough year in Away from politics, 2019, the year that the policing. Police Federation of England and Wales for the Federation’s centenary I also, for the first time, attended the celebrated its centenary, also proved to be celebrations. See Pages 6 to 9. National Police Memorial Day, accompanied by memorable for a couple of the wrong reasons. the families of two fallen officers from Gwent. In March two cyber-attacks affected It was a very emotional day, serving to remind databases and servers at the Federation’s me how important these events are to the Leatherhead headquarters, causing massive families left behind when a police officer dies disruption to Federation branches across FORUM on duty. You can read more about the England and Wales. is published by memorial service on Page 15. As a direct result, the Federation’s annual Gwent Police Federation But, before I touch on some of the difficult national conference, which gives delegates Federation Office times this year, I just wanted to mention a few nationwide the opportunity to hear first-hand 9 The Highway other positive developments this year; firstly, from politicians, police leaders, other our 2.5 per cent pay rise. stakeholders and, perhaps most importantly, For the first time in three years, the fellow officers, was cancelled. Personally, I was Visit www.no1copperpot.com NP4 0PW Government honoured the recommendations really disappointed that this decision was Tel: 01495 764349 of the Police Remuneration Review Board taken and I think this is why, at least in part, a (PRRB). We may not have got the increase the Federation centenary event in London on 21 Chair: Maria Henry Federation sought – it’s submission to PRRB November had a mini-conference feel about it Email [email protected] called for a three-year pay deal with a five per rather than a genuine celebration of what the cent uplift each year – but I do think it’s Federation has achieved in the last 100 years. Secretary: Nicky Ryan significant that the Government respected the Finally, I would just like to end by thanking Email [email protected] PRRB recommendation. Don’t get me wrong members for their continued commitment to Produced by XPR (UK) Ltd – and our pay and morale survey results (see serving the people of Gwent. With Christmas www.xpruk.com Page 4) support this view – police officers, who approaching, I know there will be many of you have seen their pay cut in real terms in recent who won’t be able to spend as much time as years, deserved more but this is definitely a you would like with your families but I hope All loans and mortgages are subject to affordability and our lending criteria. step in the right direction. that you all have the chance to celebrate the We are also seeing pledges to re-invest in festive season with your loved ones. I wish you Your savings are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme up to £85,000. You can hold a maximum of £40,000 with us across all saving accounts. policing which, of course, we also welcome. all a merry Christmas and a happy new year. And we have seen more tangible evidence Stay safe. Number One Police Credit Union Limited trading as No1 CopperPot Credit Union is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Firm Reference Number 213301. For details visit http://www.fca.org.uk. FORUM Winter 2019 3 Financial worries affecting almost half our officers

lmost half the Gwent officers who Federation, “But I am not really surprised. the job on their health and wellbeing (94 per responded to a national Police Officer pay has fallen in real terms during cent), their morale (87 per cent), the impact AFederation survey on pay and morale the years of austerity and cuts to police of the job on their family/personal life and said they worried about the state of their budgets. how the police as a whole are treated (both personal finances either daily or almost “Police officers joinPAY the police AND service toREMUNERATION 81 per cent). daily. serve their communities and in doing so The Police Federation pay and morale The figure worried about money, 48 per they put their lives on their line to protect survey is carried out each year. It was carried cent, was in line with the national response the public. They deserveCOST to be OF fairly LIVING paid for out between June and August this year. A to this element of the survey which was 51 the unique role they48% play ofin society.respondents fromtotal Gwent of 184 Police responses reported were worrying received from about the state of their personal per cent. “The results of this survey should make Gwent Police officers, a response rate of 14 The Gwent results also revealed: politicians sit up andfinances take notice. every I would day likeor almostper cent, every compared day. This with is a lower national than rate the of 16 national average for England l 85 per cent do not feel fairly paid for the to see efforts to redressand theWales, issues where officers 51% ofper respondents cent of Federated reported ranks across that Englandthey worried about their personal stresses and strains of the job have raised with theirfinances responses. every Police day or almostand everyWales. day. l 78 per cent do not feel fairly paid for the officers should not be worrying about their hazards faced within their job finances on top of dealing with the stresses l 69 per cent of respondents were and strains of their job.” How often do youHow find often yourself do you worrying find yourself about the state of dissatisfied with their overall In addition to the officers’ views on pay, worrying about the state of your remuneration - including basic pay and the survey also revealed that almost half (47 your personalpersonal finances? finances? allowances per cent) of Gwent officers felt their morale l 70 per cent of respondents felt they was low, the ninth lowest, while four out of 4% were worse off financially than they five (80 per cent) felt morale within the Force 7% 19% were five years ago, and was low. l 12 per cent reported never or almost The reasons given for low morale never having enough money to cover all included pay and benefits, including their essentials. pensions (77 per cent), how the police as a “The survey results are quite alarming,” whole are treated (74 per cent) and says Maria Henry, chair of Gwent Police management of change within the police (73 per cent). A total of 62 per cent of respondents 42% 28% from Gwent Police said that they would not recommend joining the police to others and 85 one in 10 said they intended to leave the police service within the next two years or as soon as possible. The reasons they gave per cent 19% Every day for wanting to leave included: the impactEvery day of Almost every 28%day AlmostOccassionally every day Almost every day Never do not feel fairly paid 42% Occasionally for the stresses and 7% Almost never 4% Never strains of the job 70% of respondents in Gwent Police said that they had enough money to cover all of their essentials either every month or almost every month. In contrast, 12% reported never or almost never having enough money to cover their monthly essentials. Nationally, the proportion of respondents who said they never or almost never had enough money to cover their essentials was 15%.

70% of respondents from Gwent Police felt that they were worse off financially than they were five years ago. This proportion is lower than the equivalent proportion for England and Wales as a whole, where 74% of respondents said that they were worse off financially than five years ago.

4 FORUM Winter 2019

6 Wellbeing day attracts 200 people

Det Ch Supt Nicky Brain who opened and Mark Pearl and Esmee Gummer who were contestants on SAS Who Dares Wins talk to closed the event. officers and staff at the event.

early 200 officers and staff attended your general fitness. absolutely critical. A big thank you to all the Gwent Police Mental Health and Louise Thomas from the occupational those involved in the organisation and NWellbeing Awareness Day at the health unit was on hand to administer flu delivery of the day. I can confidently say that Parkway Hotel in in October. jabs to the front-line staff and also offer you have, without doubt, positively impacted The event was organised by DC Michelle advice while Gareth Dino talked about how people in the room.” Thorne, Alicia Quartermaine, Chief Inspector the police rehabilitation centre, Flint House, Raffle prizes were also given out Richie Blakemore and Inspector Tony Patey. benefited him when he attended. Care First including bike rides, escape rooms, white The speakers included nutritionist and the Group Insurance Scheme also gave water rafting and various restaurant and Joanne Corvini who explained how the body presentations to show how officers and staff eatery visits. is affected by stress and why we reach for can benefit from their help. “Michelle Thorne worked especially hard the crisps and chocolate, offering advice on Det Ch Supt Nicky Brain opened and to source the majority of those, so a big well how to combat that. closed the day and Pam Kelly done to her,” says Maria Henry, chair of David Byfield from the Welsh Institute of said: “Feedback that I’ve received from the Gwent Police Federation, “Gareth Peebles Chiropractic (USW) talked about how to wellbeing day hosted in the Parkway Hotel spent his lunchtime singing to everyone and prevent back and shoulder pain. has been superb. The organisation was first received thunderous applause so I can The highlight of the day was an input class and I know how helpful those sort of certainly recommend listening to him if he’s from Mark Pearl and Esmee Gummer who days are. ever appearing at a venue near you. took part in SAS Who Dares Wins which was “Following on from this I’m now keen to “Another day is scheduled for early televised a few months ago. They gave tips host a further wellbeing day as soon as spring-time next year, hopefully, so please on how to motivate yourself when you possible. Wellbeing is a priority of mine and keep an eye out for it and make an effort to weren’t feeling like it and how to improve the wellbeing of our officers and staff is attend if you can.” Chair issues statement on pensions The Police Federation will continue to do the best it can for all across the UK to be granted interested party status in the members in relation to the ongoing legal process regarding the Employment Tribunal considering the remedy over discriminatory 2015 pension scheme, national chair John Apter has re-iterated in aspects of the scheme. his latest statement on the issue. The Government has also confirmed that the remedy will apply to John also confirms that the Police Federation of England and all officers discriminated against not just those who have lodged a Wales (PFEW) will represent the interests of all members, ensuring claim. no one is left behind. The national chair wrote: “This is also good news as it effectively “The whole pension situation is a complex one and there are still means that the same benefits will be received for all officers who many unknowns. However, I give you my word that PFEW will were discriminated against, without the need to submit a claim to continue to do the best we can for all our members in what is a receive this benefit. difficult and challenging situation,” said John. “What is yet to be decided upon is whether any compensation “Once I am in an informed position to announce how these will be awarded to the claimants in addition to the discrimination changes will affect you directly, I will let you know.” being remedied. This will be decided by the Employment Tribunal The Federation published the blog at the start of November just during the course of 2020 after they hear and consider evidence of days after it was one of seven staff associations representing officers any suffering caused by the discrimination.” FORUM Winter 2019 5 ‘I’m on your side and I’ve got your back’

John Apter, national chair of the Police Federation, listens to Home Secretary Priti Patel’s speech to the event.

he ‘bravery, commitment and sacrifices’ community.” been working with Federation chair John of police officers have been praised by Speaking about the dangers officers face, Apter, saying it is ‘completely right that he is Tthe Home Secretary. she said: “Each day, I ask myself, do people holding myself and the Government to Priti Patel said it had been ‘humbling’ to truly understand how unpredictable, account on our commitments’. meet some of the ’most remarkable officers’ dangerous and challenging the work of a One of her first acts as Home Secretary from across the country, during her three police officer is? was to begin the recruitment of 20,000 extra months in post. “Because, I worry the people posing the police officers and she also said she believed She was addressing 700 officers and threats you face are ever more callous. The it was the job of the Home Secretary to give invited guests included chief constables and job we ask you to do is ever more complex police officers the protection they need and PCCs at a Police Federation of England and and dangerous. That is why I want to make it empower officers to do their jobs, hence the Wales celebratory event organised to mark clear that I am on your side and that I’ve got £10 million of ring-fenced funding for Tasers. the organisation’s 100-year anniversary. The your back. She told the hall: “As crime becomes event was held at Methodist Central Hall in “I recognise the bravery, commitment and more violent, the assaults are increasingly Westminster, London where the Federation’s sacrifices of both serving and former officers. brutal. Many of you will have been hurt. first conference was held in 1919. And I stand with you; the brave men and Many of you will have seen friends and The Home Secretary said: “Your courage, women of our police.” colleagues subject to abuse in the line of dedication and public service has been truly She paid tribute to PC Andrew Harper, the duty. moving. I’m hugely honoured that my job is Thames Valley officer killed while on duty “It takes extraordinary courage to keep to help you do all of yours. From physically earlier this year, describing him as a hero. running to the front-line to face that threat, taking on violent and ruthless criminals, to She praised the Police Federation for the day in day out. But, for you, your sense of breaking heart-wrenching and tragic news to ‘key role’ it plays saying: “Whether it is duty comes first.” bereaved families. engaging with Government, supporting She concluded: “As long as I am Home “From handling some of the most families or, helping officers who have been Secretary, I will always give you the backing devastating and atrocious tragedies to assaulted, the organisation continues to you need to keep yourselves and the public bringing safety and security to the work tirelessly to represent the interests of safe. So that, together, we can stand for the communities in which we all live. You are the rank and file.” forces of right, and against the forces of evil. always there. And for that, I salute you all.” And the Home Secretary said she was “Policing is a job like no other. Every day, The Home Secretary recalled that when committed to strengthening the relationship in every town or city, police officers perform her parents first moved to the UK they set up between the Police Federation and the Home thousands acts of bravery, humanity and a corner shop and were victims of theft, Office, adding the 100-year anniversary of the compassion. abuse and burglary, before adding: “I will Federation was a ‘remarkable achievement’. “You are the ones society expects to run never forget the support shown back then to She also spoke about how one of her towards danger, to protect the vulnerable my family by the police, as well as the local highlights as Home Secretary, so far, had and to keep us safe.”

6 FORUM Winter 2019 Is it time for a Royal Commission on policing? he national chair of the Police Photos courtesy of Anderson Photography Looking back at the last 100 years, John Federation of England and Wales spoke about how the early years of the Tbelieves now is the time to shape Federation were consumed with police pay, policing for the next 100 years and pave the with little time for welfare and support way for change. issues. John Apter was speaking in front of He went on to highlight the most Federation members and reps from across recent successes – the increase in funding England and Wales, as well as the Home for Taser, the Police Covenant, which will Secretary, at the centenary event. provide greater protection and support for The national chair heaped praise on Fed officers suffering physical or psychological reps, calling them the ‘backbone’ of the trauma, and the Protect the Protectors organisation, and said 60 years on since the campaign which resulted in harsher last Royal Commission he believed the time sentences for those who assault blue-light was right to ask the public what they workers. wanted from their police. And he paid tribute to officers who have “In that 60 years the UK population has lost their lives in the centenary year: increased by more than 14 million people, PC Andrew Harper, Thames Valley Police who all need the police. That’s why I PS Colin Fox, genuinely believe that the time has come to PC Kevin Flint, Thames Valley Police. ask the public what they want from their He concluded by saying the Federation police: is the current model of policing right would continue to work with the for the next 100 years?” he asked. Government but in return officers needed to be treated with the recognition and “We have a funding formula which sees John Apter delivers his speech. a disparity in what people in one force area respect for the difficult, dangerous and can get compared to those from another. for, and looking after our colleagues, is what demanding job they do and should be paid It’s a postcode lottery of funding that is we do. And let’s not be ashamed to say, we fairly. grossly unfair. We have a structure of 43 do it really well,” he said. He said: “The Fed reps of 100 years ago separate forces. Is this right?” “I know many of you juggle your day job built the very foundations of our Much of his speech was centred around as a police officer with that as a Fed rep, very organisation. We are now building the the Federation reps, as without them the often working in your own time for those legacy. Together, united, we will continue to Federation would not exist as it does. you represent, often without thanks or do the very best for those we represent: Our “The welfare of our colleagues is what recognition. Well, today we give you that colleagues and our members who deserve drives us; it motivates us all. Looking out thanks, and that recognition.” nothing less.” Policing priorities considered in panel session The starting salary for new recruits is “We’ve got to work to get to a point where probation. The key challenges ahead would ‘unrealistic’ and will ‘definitely’ make the starting salary is an acceptable starting include implementing the 20,000 new officer recruiting 20,000 new officers harder – salary and the ability for someone to earn uplift and the increased complexities of according to the chair of the National Police more as they progress in their career is there.” crime and he called investment in new Chiefs’ Council (NPCC). Sir Thomas Winsor, HM Chief Inspector of technology ‘the golden key’ to tackling crime. Chief Constable Martin Hewitt made the Constabulary, who was also on the panel, said He also expressed concerns around officer comments when he was part of a panel to improve diversity within the police service welfare. session on policing priorities at the centenary recruitment had to be based on merit and Other topics discussed in the panel event. policing had to be made as attractive as session included increasing pressure put on He was asked whether a starting salary of possible through pay and conditions. officers to respond to mental health £18,000 will affect the ability to recruit He also said that reforms on over-time call-outs, with the director of the College of 20,000 officers and replied ‘definitely’. and linking pay rises to performance in terms Policing, Bernie O’Reilly, saying officers were He continued: “What we’ve found is of skills and contribution could have ‘been not the best equipped to do so. starting salaries differ considerably around more radical’ when he was asked if he would Sir Thomas warned the pressure being the country, but I don’t think that figure is a change anything in the two reports published put on forces is ‘unsustainable’ with officers realistic figure for someone who is coming following his independent review of police under ‘intolerable strain’ due to failures into policing. officer and staff remuneration and conditions, within other public services. “When we put the bid in to the Home in March 2011 and March 2012. The panellists also gave their views on Office for the funding, we set a mid-level Earlier in the session, he was critical of the the need for investment in technology, range. We’ve got to have those conversations state of the whole justice system, calling it whether 43 forces was the right model for because we want people to come in with dysfunctional and citing, among other things, policing and boosting diversity within the certain skills and aspirations. the state of prisons and the outsourcing of service.

FORUM Winter 2019 7 8 FORUM Winter 2019 ‘What matters most’: Pledge on officer assaults officers give their views sentences of Federation support Photos courtesy of Anderson Photography

hree officers who had Treceived excellent support from the Federation gave an insight into how the organisation makes a difference to its members in a centenary event session called ‘What matters most’. The panel session ‘What matters most’ (left to right) Mick Johnson, James Custody Holden, Federation vice-chair Ché Donald and Zoe Bradstreet. Sergeant Zoe Bradstreet from explained how what has happened, particularly in relation John Apter welcomes Priti Patel to the event. the Federation was continuing to provide to the loss of life, it shouldn’t be a witch- support during a four and a half year – and hunt and nor should it be assumed that entences for those who chose to assault ongoing – case involving a death in custody. someone has done something wrong rather police officers could be doubled, the On Day 1, she said, the Federation was than it being appropriate police action in SHome Secretary has announced. there for her, offering her a comfort blanket dangerous situations. Inquiries into officers Violent offenders who assault officers, and virtual hug. Crucially, Zoe explained, the were often taking longer than murder and other emergency service workers Federation could see the signs of stress investigations. currently get up to 12 months in prison but within her and the impact the case was Mick Johnson, a Cleveland officer with this could rise to two years, following the having on her husband and her children, 28 years’ service, explained how he was announcement by Priti Patel. pointing her towards counselling which had treated for PTSD after an incident in which She made the pledge at the centenary helped give her strategies to cope. The he ended up with a relatively minor physical event, saying: “One of the first acts of the next Federation, Zoe added, had become like injury but a massive impact on his mental Conservative Government will be to consult family to her, providing support 24 hours a health. on doubling the maximum sentence for day when she needed it. Repeated exposure to traumatic assaulting police officers and other Ché Donald, vice-chair of the Federation, incidents meant that around 20 per cent of emergency service workers, taking the said the impact of such cases on individual officers are thought to be suffering from maximum sentence from 12 to 24 months in officers was phenomenal with many being PTSD and this is why the Federation, Ché prison. made to feel like criminals when they were said, believed there should be a wraparound “We are going to make the thugs who just doing their jobs. The psychological welfare provision for all officers, something attack police officers think twice.” impact could last a long time, he explained, that had been developed over the last 10 The Assaults on Emergency Workers with there being nothing worse than being years through mental health support (Offences) Act 2018 was introduced in accused of something you hadn’t done. programmes, for example, at the Flint November 2018 following the Federation’s This was also picked up on by James House rehabilitation centre and the Welfare successful Protect the Protectors campaign Holden, a Hampshire response driver, who Support Programme. which called for a two-year sentence where was prosecuted for dangerous driving after He also called on officers to support assault or battery was committed against a what he felt was an ‘uneventful pursuit’ each other, by asking colleagues if they are colleague. involving an offender with 150 convictions. OK and encouraging them to talk about Ms Patel said: “I’ve been appalled by the His Fed rep was the now national chair how they are feeling but urged forces to increasing numbers of assaults on our brave John Apter. invest in preventative tools rather than police officers and am not going to stand for it. “I can’t thank John enough,” said James, reacting when someone has a mental “Part of the solution is giving police the who is now a Fed rep himself on the Isle of health crisis. resources and powers they need to keep Wight. Some forces were talking the talk, he themselves safe but we also need to make Acquitted at court after an eight-day said, but not walking the walk with policies sure that the punishment for assaulting an trial, he said the build-up to the hearing in place but no evidence of what they were officer truly fits the crime.” really took its toll on his mental health and actually doing. The Police Covenant could In the last year alone, there were more that of his wife, also a serving police officer. help to ensure there is not a postcode than 30,000 assaults on police officers in Ché told the audience that while it was lottery in terms of the support available to England and Wales – up 18 per cent. As many right for there to be inquiries to find out officers. as one in four serving officers were attacked.

FORUM Winter 2019 9 Nicky gets to grips with secretary role icky Ryan became secretary of Gwent for my broad and controversial opinions. responsibilities and in 2008 when I Police Federation in July this year challenged the Force around a matter of Nfollowing the retirement of Vickie Q. Where was your first posting? fairness. I realised that the Federation Day. A. - a cold but brilliant place to provided me with practical advice but is also Nicky has taken part in our Q and A learn your craft. actually the measured voice of reason. feature to give an insight into her career to date, her time with the Federation and her Q. Can you give a brief overview of your Q. Did you find there was a lot more to the thoughts on the challenges ahead for policing career to date? Federation than you originally thought? officers, the Force and the Police Federation. A. 1996 - 1998 Brynmawr on shift A. Oh yes! 1998 - 2000 Q. What did you do before joining Gwent 2005 - 2010 Field intelligence officer Q. What Fed training have you undertaken, Police? at and and what further courses do you have lined A. I was in the RAF working in tri-service Blackwood up? communications establishments. It allowed 2010 - 2013 Neighbourhood officer A. Equality, misconduct, treasurer’s and me to travel the world and do my growing at post-incident procedures (PIP) training. up in a fairly safe environment. Thank covering Cefn Federation-wise I need to maintain my CPD, goodness there was no social media back 2013 - 2015 Police prosecution team but I also think that it is important to then! 2015 - 2017 Federation rep in the undertake Force training so that I am aware Force Change Programme of local current policies and procedures. Q. When did you join the Force? 2017 - 2019 Response at Blackwood A. March 1996. March - July 2019 Area incident secretary Q. What did you find the most challenging in Force control room part of being a workplace rep? Q. Had you always wanted to be a police July 2019 Secretary of Branch A. Time. Trying to juggle a full-time role, with officer? Please explain why: Council. the part-time Fed work and my home life. A. Yes, I always wanted to be an officer. When I was five or six we had a family friend who Q. When did you first become a member of Q. And what was the most rewarding? was a detective - thinking back, he was Gwent Police Federation? A. Ensuring that members are treated fairly totally Life on Mars) - but he was the most A. 1996. and getting an outcome which is acceptable exciting person I had ever met. He influenced for the member but also fits what the Force my decision hugely. Q. Had you ever fallen into the ‘what does needs. the Fed do for me’ camp? Q. What would you have done if you hadn’t A. Yes, it quickly passed. Q. What made you put yourself forward as a joined the police when you did? candidate to be secretary? A. I would probably have stayed in the RAF... Q. When did you first become a Federation A. It was the natural next step having been a but I also say that if I didn’t join the police I rep, and why? part-time rep for so many years. would have tried to become a local radio DJ A. 2013. I had used the Federation to get my as I love music and I would have a soap box flexible working agreed when I had caring Q. How did you feel on being elected? A. Shocked, surprised but very pleased.

Q. How’s it going? I had used the Federation to get my flexible A. It is a very steep learning curve and I was not prepared for the volume of work that comes through the door. working agreed when I had caring responsibilities “ Q. What do you see as your priorities in the coming months and over the next year? and in 2008 when I challenged the Force around a A. Getting our Fed reps trained and involved so that they have the knowledge to provide a service for members in the future. matter of fairness. I realised that the Federation Supporting Chief Constable Pam Kelly with her welfare priorities with different initiatives.

provided me with practical advice but is also Q. What do you see the challenges ahead for… Police officers? actually the measured voice of reason. The workforce is going to be very young and

10 FORUM Winter 2019 inexperienced for many years to come with GET TO KNOW YOUR WORKPLACE REPS increased pressures due to external stakeholders processes such as the Crown Prosecution Service and Independent ‘It feels the right time to give something back’ Office for Police Conduct. The Force? After nearly 25 years as a “However, I am a single parent and know An increasing amount of scrutiny on the member and having used from my own circumstances how stressful Force (some justified, some not justified) the Federation’s services and challenging it is. So, I do have an from other bodies. on numerous occasions, interest in this area, making sure we look The police service? Sergeant Steve Thorpe has after our officers but also balancing that Political fragility and the mission creep of now become a workplace with the needs of the organisation. I think the police in relation to other agencies not representative. we sometimes forget that nothing is more undertaking their role. However, I truly Steve accepted his important than family and we ask so much believe the Force is working hard to ensure place on the Gwent Branch of people that providing stability and that we are not undertaking as much work Council in May 2019 and he is looking reassurance is priceless to an individual and as which should sit with other agencies as forward to giving something back to other valuable to the organisation.” we were. officers. He believes the biggest issues for the And Gwent Police Federation? Thinking back to why he originally Federation are officers’ welfare and their Ensuring that we have experienced reps to joined, he says: “I joined after a presentation mental health wellbeing. provide a service to members in the future. in my first couple of weeks at Police HQ in “Assault against officers is another area 1995. The Federation came and explained where we must be able to support our Q. How will you help meet these the risks of not being a member and, of members through difficult period in their challenges? course, the benefits. careers. Very sadly, this is a growth area A. By representing members and taking “It was clear to me, even then, that I where assaults are outpacing our ability to issues to the chief officer team to try to wasn’t prepared to risk being a non-member resource adequately how we police,” he provide early resolutions. and not having the support, especially when explains. so young and naïve about the risks. It is “We also have a very young and Q. What message would you like to send really easy to get bound up in the romance inexperienced workforce who use social to the members? and nobility of what we do and ignore the media as a way to very publicly live their A. Police Regulations and the Working gritty, dirty side that offers up the real risk lives. It is a real challenge educating and Time Regulations are in place to protect and danger. raising individual awareness around officers. “Throughout my career, I have come appropriateness and acceptability for a across the good, the bad and the ugly and police officer.” utilised the Federation on more than one For Gwent Police, he sees the challenges QUICK FIRE QUESTIONS occasion. It just feels the right time to give as being balancing workloads with welfare something back to the officers coming and mental health. through” Steve, who currently the resilience Favourite book? Anything by Lee Childs. Steve’s training is in full swing, having sergeant at Pill Police Station, is set to retire been on a new reps’ course at Federation in 2022, but can already see himself Favourite film? Pretty in Pink or Top HQ and by the end of the year he will have continuing his work with the Federation. Gun. also attended courses on equality and “I am very proud of being in the British misconduct. police and have met many interesting and Favourite song/music/album? St Elmo’s Steve says: “I think like most people, I varied people. The work has been Fire. wanted to help officers going through a interesting, sometimes stressful but often misconduct but actually I am happy to get rewarding and hope that this is just the next Biggest influence on your policing involved in all aspects of Federation work. phase of my policing adventure,” he says. career? Over the years a number of people have believed in me (they know Annalea keen to help colleagues who they are) and I am eternally grateful for their belief and Annalea Kift decided to It is conduct and performance that encouragement… most of them have become a Federation interests Annalea the most and, having been thanked with wine and chocolate! representative to improve completed her initial reps’ course at the her ability to help Police Federation HQ in Leatherhead, she is colleagues in times of looking forward to follow-up courses on Ideal dinner guests? Freddie Mercury, need. that subject and also equality. Denise Lewis (the pentathlete), my Annalea, who has been Annalea has worked all divisions in friend, ex-PCSO and Force chaplain a police officer for 22 years, Gwent, with the exception of , and Father Gareth, Yvette Cooper, Noel explained: “I initially joined most of her service has been at Blaenau on Fitzpatrick (the Supervet) and Princess the Federation in 1997 during my training response or neighbourhood as a Anne - it is a large table! because I wanted to benefit from the neighbourhood ward officer in . protection that it afforded me and it was She is currently seconded to a And what would you cook for them? I much cheaper than if I ever needed other Community Houses Project until Christmas wouldn’t, my husband would. It would professional and legal services. and added: “Police services nationally, be a good hearty menu of goat’s cheese “I became a workplace rep earlier this including Gwent, have suffered over the tart to start, Mary Berry’s beef stew year in order improve my knowledge of past years due to severe funding cuts. But I with mustard mash and tender stem working conditions, policy and regulations, live in hope that promises of increased broccoli followed by creme brulée. and to assist others in their understanding funding and investment in resources from and help them in times of need.” political parties comes to fruition.”

FORUM Winter 2019 11 Group Insurance Scheme - can you afford not to be in it?

he Gwent Police Federation Group Life insurance Critical illness Insurance Scheme has long offered On the death of a member The benefit will be payable Tcomprehensive insurance cover or subscribing co-habiting if a member, member’s tailored to the needs of police officers and partner, the cash benefit subscribing co-habiting their families but now the scheme has been will be paid to the named partner or their child, aged extended to members of police staff. beneficiary. The policy is written in Trust so from 30 days to 17 years, suffers from an The scheme, managed in partnership that if a member dies, the payment can be insured illness and survives for more than 14 with Philip Williams and Co Insurance made to the member’s dependants quickly, days from the date of diagnosis or surgery. Management, includes life insurance, free of tax and without having to wait for Full details and definitions for the sick pay benefit, worldwide family travel probate. illnesses covered can be found in the insurance, motor breakdown cover for the Members are reminded to ensure they scheme booklet which is available under the member and their partner and mobile keep their nominated beneficiaries’ details Group Insurance Scheme at gwentpf.org but phone insurance, again for the member and updated – particularly upon marriage, they include Alzheimer’s disease, bacterial their partner. divorce or re-marriage. meningitis, benign brain tumours, a heart Serving officers and staff pay £27.50 for If a member aged 63 or under receives attack, first-degree burns, Motor Neurone the insurance with their benefits including: a terminal prognosis of 12 months or less, Disease, Parkinson’s Disease and strokes. l £120,000 life insurance they may apply for an advance of the death l 20 per cent advance on life insurance on benefit of 20 per cent of the relevant sum RedArc - Personal terminal prognosis insured. l £10,000 critical illness cover You can also arrange additional life Nurse Adviser RedArc gives access to l On duty assault benefits insurance cover for an extra fee. l Firearm - £1,500 a dedicated Personal l Nurse Adviser, who is an Stabbing - £750 Court award l Burns causing disfigurement or experienced registered nurse, providing scarring – up to £5,000 £ compensation long-term practical advice and emotional l Unrecovered criminal court This is provided if, as a support for: compensation of up to £500 result of an assault on duty, l Serious physical illness Partner cover can be arranged for £10.80 compensation awarded by a l Long-term disability per calendar month. court has not been paid within six months l Patients discharged from hospital. Full details can be found in the scheme of the date it was awarded. The support of the Personal Nurse benefits booklet which Adviser is tailored to meet the unique needs can be found of each individual, including but not limited at gwentpf.org to: - addressing unanswered questions about a diagnosis and all its implications;

12 FORUM Winter 2019 understanding options for treatment or medication; helping with medical terminology; coping with the emotional effects of illness; talking about the impact on families and carers; discussing what home adaptations or specialist equipment is suitable; understanding entitlements from the NHS and social services and how to access these; providing literature and resources relevant to the health condition; identifying charities and local support groups and preparing to return to work. When clinically appropriate, other help may be arranged such as a course of therapy. Personal Nurse Advisers are available during office hours, Monday – Friday. There is no limit to the frequency, duration or number of phone calls.

World-wide family travel policy This covers the member, their co-habiting partner and any number of their unmarried dependant children aged under 23, all normally resident in the family home, for any number of trips in any year up to 60 days per trip. It covers travel worldwide and in the United Kingdom. The main sections of cover are: l Cancellation and curtailment up to £5,000 l Emergency medical expenses up to £10,000,000 l Personal baggage up to £2,000 l Personal money up to £1,000 l Personal liability up to £2,000,000 l Personal accident up to £25,000.

UK motor breakdown Comprehensive motor breakdown cover for the members and their co- habiting partner including: l Roadside Assistance/Recovery l Home Assist l Alternative travel l Emergency overnight accommodation l Misfuel Assist l Message service l Keys.

FORUM Winter 2019 13 “It’s nice to relax knowing my divorce settlement is sorted.”

Getting a divorce is never easy, especially on top of the pressures of police work. At Slater and Gordon we offer Police Federation members a free initial consultation, a divorce fixed fee package and discounted hourly rates. We’ll be with you every step of the way so you can focus on your job and let us deal with everything else.

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14 FORUM Winter 2019 Prince of Wales pays tribute to fallen officers HRH The Prince of Wales joined the Photos courtesy of Anderson Photography congregation at this year’s National Police Memorial Day service at the Royal Concert Hall in Glasgow. He joined officers from across the UK at the service to stand alongside the families of fallen officers. Gwent Police Federation was represented by chair Maria Henry and misconduct and performance manager Sue Connikie who accompanied a group of the family members of fallen officers from the Force. “It was a lovely weekend but very emotional,” says Maria, “At the start of the service, a band of bagpipe players marched into the hall and that gets to me every time. “The service was a fitting tribute to those officers who have died in the line of George Cross Foundation. Constabulary George Cross, who was fatally their duties and it was, as ever, good to see Candles were lit by relatives of fallen shot in 1978 by terrorists while on duty. the whole police service come together to officers and in remembrance of officers Chief Inspector Andrea MacDonald, chair show their families that they are never throughout the country who have lost their of the Scottish Police Federation, read the forgotten.” lives. names of officers who have lost their lives Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon Representing Scotland, Margaret Sinclair, during the past year: and more than 40 chief constables were supported by her daughter, Patricia Sinclair, PC Joseph Robert Cooke, Metropolitan among the congregation of around 1,500 wife and daughter of PC Leslie Sinclair who Police. people. died in 1972 from injuries suffered in a road PC Daniel Clayton-Drabble, Thames Valley Home Secretary Priti Patel gave a reading traffic collision while on duty. Police. and said: “Today is a day to remember the Representing England, Rumbie Mabuto, PC Kevin Flint, Thames Valley Police. bravery, commitment, and sacrifices of police widow of PC Joe Mabuto who died in 2016 PS Colin Michael Fox, Metropolitan Police. officers who have died serving their country.” after suffering a heart attack while on duty, PC Andrew Harper, Thames Valley Police, and Prayers were led by Marilyn Bromilow, and supported by their children, Kenny and PC Roy Buggins, . the sister-in-law of PC John Edward Sophia. The service also paid tribute to US Bromilow who was fatally injured in 1979 in Representing Wales, William Parker, son Special Agent Nole Remagen who died while a patrol car crash while escorting a prisoner; of PC Andy Parker who was killed in a on duty in Scotland. Chief Inspector Gill Marshall of Police motorbike crash when travelling home after There was silence as petals of Scotland, widow of PC Alan McMurray who a night shift in 2005. remembrance, representing all who have died in 2006 when he was struck by a van at Representing Northern Ireland, Margo lost their lives, descended from the gallery the scene of an accident, and Stephen White, Hetherington, daughter of Reserve as the orchestra played ‘Abide With Me’ and chair of the Royal Ulster Constabulary Constable Jacob Rankin, Royal Ulster the Last Post was sounded. Could policing come under the Welsh Government? Police officers must be consulted before “However, in our detailed evidential a single Wales Police Force instead stating ‘this any plans to move responsibility for policing submission to this commission, and the Silk should be a decision for the future’. away from Westminster and to the Welsh Commission before it, we concluded that However, the recommendations do include: Assembly, says Mark Bleasdale, Welsh lead for policing in Wales ‘could be devolved’ but l The creation of a new Justice Department the Police Federation of England and Wales that the decision of whether it ‘should be within the Welsh Government led by a (PFEW). devolved’ is a matter for politicians. And we Cabinet Minister Mark, who is also chair of Dyfed Powys will now see how they react to this latest l Long-term arrangements for police Police Federation, was commenting after report.” apprenticeship funding which do not the Commission for Justice in Wales made He also stressed that if the commission’s disadvantage Welsh police forces 78 recommendations about the future of recommendations are accepted by the Welsh compared to their English counterparts to the justice system in Wales following a and Westminster Governments any changes be agreed by the Welsh Government and comprehensive review led by former Lord must be done in full consultation with not the Chief Justice of England and Wales Lord just police officers but also criminal justice l Policing and crime reduction policy, Thomas of Cwmgiedd. stakeholders and in consideration of the including drug abuse and mental health They include backing for a fully devolved public’s needs. related issues, should be determined in police service in Wales governed by the Welsh Mark added: “The Police Federation Wales so that it is aligned and integrated Government – replicating arrangements must be at the heart of any the planning and with Welsh health, education and social already in place in Scotland and Northern implementation of any changes to ensure our policy, and Ireland. members are best represented.” l The age of criminal responsibility in Wales Mark said: “Lord Thomas and his And he concluded: “Whatever lies ahead, being raised to at least 12. commission have whole-heartedly backed police officers in Wales will continue to do The Ministry of Justice says it believes a shift of the whole justice system in Wales what they do day in day out - serve their devolution of all justice functions in Wales - including policing - from Westminster to communities to the very best of their ability.” would be too costly and lead to significant Cardiff. PFEW remains neutral on the matter The report does not make any duplication. of devolved policing. recommendation in relation to the concept of FORUM Winter 2019 15 Authorised and Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

“Now the pressure’s gone, I can get back to my police work.” You never know when you’re going to need legal advice. Slater and Gordon have been advising and supporting Police Federation members for more than 60 years, taking the legal stress away and leaving you to focus on keeping people safe.

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