South Wales Police Federation has welcomed the news that an Elizabeth Emblem will be given in honour of emergency service workers who have died in the line of duty.

It has been formally announced that a posthumous award will be given to the family of police officers and other public servants, in recognition of the ultimate sacrifice they have made.

The Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW), along with the Police Superintendents’ Association and the Prison Officers Association, have been campaigning for such an award for two years.

South Wales Federation branch chair Steve Treharne said: “We have backed the Federation’s Medals for Heroes campaign since it launched in 2022 and we couldn’t be more pleased that our fallen colleagues will be formally recognised.

“Policing is a risky job but no cop ever expects to leave for work and not return home to their loved ones. While The Elizabeth Emblem won’t bring that person back, there’s no doubt in my mind that it will provide some comfort to their loved ones.”

Families of officers who have lost their lives on duty can apply for the award now by visiting gov.uk. Nominations will be reviewed by the George Cross Committee and recommendations then made to His Majesty The King via the Prime Minister. Recipients of The Elizabeth Emblem will receive their award from a senior representative such as a Chief Constable, chief fire officer or a Lord Lieutenant. 

Federation national deputy chair Tiff Lynch with campaigner Bryn Hughes.

Bryn Hughes MBE has helped lead the campaign, after his daughter, Great Manchester PC Nicola Hughes was killed while on duty in 2012. Nicola and fellow PC Fiona Bone were tragically murdered while responding to a report of a burglary. 

Bryn said: “Nicola and Fiona went to work that day wearing the Crown and they lost their lives while responding to what they thought was a call for help from a member of the public.  

“To receive this news that their sacrifice is to be formally recognised by the Crown and State is overwhelming.  

“I meet with many other families of fallen officers and I’m sure that many of those too will be thankful for this formal recognition.”

PFEW National Board member and Medals for Heroes lead John Partington said: “Working to get this award introduced has been a long process with many people involved and we would like to thank everyone who has assisted PFEW and Bryn Hughes throughout this campaign.

“This work was primarily done for the benefit of our members and other ‘blue light’ service workers, and we have been calling for such recognition for four years. However, I am also very pleased to hear the Elizabeth Emblem will cover other public sector workers too, not just our members.”