Tribute to South Wales PC
2 August 2021
South Wales Police Federation secretary Clare Biddlecombe has paid tribute to PC Andrew James who was killed in the line of duty.
COPS service honours fallen officers
2 August 2021
South Wales Police Federation secretary Clare Biddlecombe has praised the work of the Care of Police Survivors (COPS) charity after a poignant memorial service at the National Memorial Arboretum.
The emotional ceremony yesterday was attended by hundreds of police officers, many of whom had just finished the ninth Police Unity Tour (PUT) bike ride which saw teams of riders from all forces zig-zag their way across the country to reach the Staffordshire site.
New Quick Reference Guide published
2 August 2021
A new edition of the Quick Reference Guide (QRG) to terms and conditions of service has been published by the Police Federation of England and Wales.
Official memorial pays tribute to heroic fallen officers
30 July 2021
A memorial dedicated to police officers who have lost their lives while on duty has been unveiled at a ceremony attended by HRH The Prince of Wales.
More than 700 officer assaults
30 July 2021
Almost 340 South Wales Police officers were injured in attacks by members of the public last year, new figures have revealed.
Federation helps fund metal detecting wands
29 July 2021
Frontline officers are being issued with hand-held metal detectors to help tackle knife crime – thanks to South Wales Police Federation.
Government accused of showing contempt to police officers
27 July 2021
The Police Federation has written to Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Chancellor Rishi Sunak demanding a “total reset” of the relationship between the Government and the police.
Remembering fallen colleagues with new memorial
27 July 2021
Police officers and staff who lost their lives in the line of duty are to be honoured in a permanent memorial which is to be unveiled at the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas, Staffordshire tomorrow.
Pandemic has impact on officers’ mental health
26 July 2021
More than three quarters of police officers have admitted experiencing mental health and wellbeing difficulties in the last year as the impact of policing the pandemic becomes clear, a report has found.
Election news: Nominations deadline extended by one week
26 July 2021
Police Federation members still have time to put themselves forward as workplace representatives in the forthcoming elections after the nominations process was extended for one week.
Force launches ‘one-stop shop’ for all things Commonwealth Games
25 July 2021
It’s a year to go until the Commonwealth Games and West Midlands Police are taking a positive approach to encouraging officers to put themselves forward for mutual aid for the iconic event.
Federation withdraws from pay review process
22 July 2021
Angry Police Federation officials said they will no longer cooperate with the Police Remuneration Review Body (PRRB) after the Government announced it was pressing ahead with its controversial pay freeze for officers.
PC Jeffrey Phillips remembered
22 July 2021
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne has paid tribute to PC Jeffrey Phillips on the anniversary of his death.
Rep elections: nominations close on Thursday
Nominations for Police Federation workplace representatives in the forthcoming elections close this week.
The deadline for nominations is 11.59pm on Thursday (22 July) before voting gets underway at the end of the month.
Travel Update
Following the recent UK Government announcement that quarantine-free travel is to resume on 19th July 2021 for fully vaccinated passengers returning from amber list countries, we wish to refer you to our previous bulletin, issued on 20th May 2021, and the guidance contained within.
Whilst the government has adapted the rules, including removing the recommendation for people not to travel to amber countries, and changing arrival rules into the UK based on vaccination status, Millstream policies continue to provide cover where an Insured Person is not travelling against FCDO advice.
Officers urged to consider being Federation reps
15 July 2021
Nominations for the Police Federation elections close next week but there is still time for members considering standing as a workplace representative to put themselves forward.
Forces urged to follow new BWV guidelines
14 July 2021
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne has echoed those of the national chair in urging forces to make full use of new guidelines making it easier for them to release officers’ body-worn video (BWV) footage.
HMICFRS report on violent crime against women and girls welcomed
14 July 2021
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne has welcomed a new report calling for a reformed multi-agency approach to tackling an increase in violent crime against women and girls.
Officers feeling less valued by the public
A major new report survey has found officers felt less valued by members of the public during the coronavirus pandemic.
Fed rep elections process begins
1 July 2021
Nominations for workplace representatives are now open ahead of this year’s Police Federation elections.
Remembering PC Garry Wozencroft
30 June 2021
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne has paid tribute to PC Garry Wozencroft on the anniversary of his death.
Fed elections: find out more about the work of a rep
Police Federation members are being encouraged to log on to a special Twitter chat highlighting the vital work of the workplace rep in the run-up to the July elections.
The hour-long @WeCops session, which gets underway at 9pm tomorrow night (30 June), will focus on the incredible work carried out by the reps, how they are supported by the Federation and how officers can still get involved.
The chat is being hosted by Police Federation national chair John Apter tweeting as @PFEW_Chair and board member and national wellbeing secretary Belinda Goodwin tweeting as @BelindaPfew.
Federation helps fund memorial bench installed in honour of PC
A memorial bench has been installed in honour of South Wales Police Federation member PC Jeremy Veck after the branch’s Group Insurance Scheme offered to pay for the project.
All members can access Welfare Support Programme
28 June 2021
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne has welcomed a boost to the pioneering Welfare Support Programme which provides members with a wide range of services including clinical assessment and counselling.
Back to Basics: is your body armour affecting your health?
24 June 2021
Wearing body armour for long shifts could be contributing to officer injuries, the chair of South Wales Police Federation has warned as part of a new awareness campaign.
South Wales Federation Forum - Summer 2021
The South Wales Federation Forum - Summer 2021 is now available
Most officers do voluntary work
A new survey has found almost nine out of ten police officers volunteered to carry out unpaid community work or fund-raising activities alongside their duties throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
Research carried out for today’s Public Service Day by Boundless - a membership club for civil service and public sector workers – found 88 per cent of those polled had either volunteered or raised money during the covid crisis.
New toolkit for investigators
22 June 2021
Oscar Kilo has launched a new toolkit aimed at offering detectives and investigators support with their emotional wellbeing.
Remembering PC Ian Godfrey
20 June 2021
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne has paid tribute to PC Ian Charles Godfrey on the anniversary of his death.
Federation conference: watch key sessions
17 June 2021
Key sessions from last week’s Police Federation annual conference are now available to members via a video on-demand service.
Remembering Sergeant Mark Woodward
14 June 2021
Steve Treharne, chair of South Wales Police Federation, has paid tribute to Sergeant Mark Woodward on the anniversary of his death.
Members encouraged to stand in Federation elections
Members are being encouraged to stand in the upcoming Federation elections, with national vice-chair Ché Donald calling his appointment ‘life-changing’.
TV judge proves a hit at conference
10 June 2021
TV judge and barrister Robert Rinder and his thoughts on trial by media proved to be one of the highlights of the Thursday sessions of the national Police Federation conference.
ACC to address Federation conference
10 June 2021
The Assistant Chief Constable of South Wales Police will be among the participants on Day 2 of the Police Federation of England Wales’ annual national conference which takes place today.
Protesters’ behaviour ‘grotesque’ says Home Secretary
9 June 2021
“The right to protest and speak freely does not include the right to smash up property or abuse police officers. That behaviour is grotesque,” the Home Secretary told delegates at the first ever virtual national Police Federation conference.
Federation’s virtual conference starts today
9 June 2021
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne hopes this year’s virtual annual national Federation conference, which starts today, will give more members a chance to hear what key speakers have to say.
Welsh language scheme welcomed
8 June 2021
A new scheme designed to offer better support to Welsh-speaking police officers has been welcomed by South Wales Police Federation.
Crime figures reveal rise in assaults on emergency service workers
7 June 2021
A 26 per cent rise in assaults against emergency workers proves the courts have to impose tougher sentences on those found guilty of such attacks, says South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne.
Get Active for Police Care UK
3 June 2021
The Police Get Active Challenge 2021 kicks off later this month and officers across the South Wales force are being urged to register to take part.
Members reaping the benefits of wellbeing dogs project
2 June 2021
From improving mental health to bringing teams together, South Wales Police Federation members are reaping the benefits of having regular visits from wellbeing dogs.
Election Café: find out more about being a Fed rep
The vital work carried out by Police Federation workplace representatives will be highlighted at an online event next week ahead of the triennial elections which start from July.
Courts must use full powers on officer assaults
Assaults on police officers must be punished with the maximum sentences available under new guidelines, say the chair of South Wales Police Federation.
Concerns over impact of pandemic on officers’ mental health
The Police Federation’s new Welsh affairs lead says she’s worried about the long-term impact of dealing with Covid-19 on police officers’ mental health.
Chair condemns Swansea violence
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne has condemned the violence and disorder in Swansea last night, and praised officers who were subjected to extreme violence when missiles were thrown at them by a hostile crowd.
Federation to help train IOPC investigators
The chair of the South Wales branch says plans for the Federation to have a role in the training of IOPC investigators will speed up the process and make it fairer for members under investigation.
Event hopes to raise £40,000 for COPS charity
Organisers of this year’s Light the Lakes challenge hope to raise more than £40,000 for the Care of Police Survivors (COPS) charity.
Officers thanked for Covid response
Officers deserve full credit for the incredible work they have carried out during the pandemic, says the chair of South Wales Police Federation.
Launch of wellbeing project sees dogs supporting officers
The project lead of a brand-new wellbeing and trauma support dogs initiative says it is vital that everything is done to better support officers with their mental health.
Election Cafés: find out more about being a Fed rep
South Wales Branch chair Steve Treharne says being a Police Federation workplace representative can be hugely rewarding and is encouraging members to stand at the upcoming elections.
Forces urged to take fatigue seriously
Police forces are being urged to take fatigue and recovery seriously in two blogs published by the Police Federation of England and Wales as part of this week’s Mental Health Awareness Week.
Mental Health Awareness Week: support on hand
Thanks to St John Ambulance, there is now a whole host of support available to help officers prioritise their wellbeing during Mental Health Awareness Week and beyond.
National conference goes online
This year’s national Police Federation conference will give members the chance to explore a turbulent year in policing, says South Wales branch chair Steve Treharne.
Federation seeks assurances on pensions remedy
The Federation has written to Home Secretary Priti Patel to seek evidence and clarification that the implementation of the public sector pensions remedy would not cause further discrimination to officers.
League tables will lead to return of target culture says Fed chair
The return of league tables will lead to damaging target culture within forces, says the chair of South Wales Police Federation Steve Treharne.
Support for officers during Stress Awareness Month
To mark Stress Awareness Month (April) a new video has been produced to help members set their goals.
Report praises ‘committed’ police response to pandemic
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne has welcomed a report published by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) praising forces for their ‘dedication and commitment’ during the pandemic.
Federation chair encourages members to remember Matt Ratana
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne is encouraging members and officers across the region to take part in the Ratana 10k 2021.
Driving lead seeking officers’ experiences with car insurance premiums
Has your personal car insurance premium increased as a result of an on-duty driving incident?
Federation chair welcomes mental health toolkit
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne has welcomed the introduction of a Mind toolkit designed to support police officers with their mental health during the ongoing pandemic.
Help build resilience with new online training
Officers are being given another chance to take part in a free online resilience-building session.
World Health Day: Officers encouraged to take better care of wellbeing
A free guide has been created this World Health Day to help officers take better care of their wellbeing.
Stress management: member wellbeing is a priority, says Fed chair
Branch chair Steve Treharne says the wellbeing of members is a South Wales Police Federation priority as he welcomes a free guide created to help officers manage their stress levels.
Federation calls for clear guidance as lockdown eases
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne has called for “absolute clarity” from the Governments in Wales and England about what’s expected of police and the public as lockdown restrictions ease.
“Talk about your money worries”
The impact of the pandemic has made it more important than ever to talk about money issues, says South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne.
Federation set to welcome Specials as members
South Wales Police Federation branch chair Steve Treharne praised the contribution of Special Constables during the pandemic as a new bill goes through Parliament which will allow them to access Federation support.
PMS are running mortgage surgeries for officers.
Despite the fact that the Government 5% deposit scheme does not come into force until next month we already have a number of lenders whom are happy to support 95% mortgages again, which is really good news especially for first time buyers! Coupled with the stamp duty extension it may be an ideal time for some to get on the housing ladder / move home.
Home Secretary praises Federation during debate
The Home Secretary has said she admires the way John Apter fights for officers as she praised the national chair and Police Federation during a Parliamentary debate on Monday (15 March).
NPCC puts focus on response officers
Response officers work in incredibly demanding roles and regularly see the very best and the very worst of humanity, according to the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) wellbeing lead.
Officers facing more hostility for enforcing lockdown
The chair of South Wales Police Federation says officers are facing “greater hostility” from the public for enforcing lockdown rules.
Consider your financial wellbeing
Federation members can get free and confidential help for their money worries during the pandemic through two new Police Mutual finance factsheets.
Online financial advice available for officers
A number of free online sessions are now available to help members manage their finances better.
From understanding borrowing to will planning, the 30-minute modules cover a broad range of topics to assist those needing extra support when dealing with their money.
First Minister accused of failing to help protect officers during pandemic
The four Police Federation branches of Wales have joined forces in an open letter to the First Minister of Wales suggesting he has reneged on his commitment to protect police officers during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
The Dyfed Powys, Gwent, North Wales and South Wales Federation branches are challenging Mark Drakeford on statements he made on Twitter and in a letter last April as the pandemic gained pace.
New guide to terms and conditions of service
The Police Federation has issued a new Quick Reference Guide (QRG) for officers’ terms and conditions of service.
The new guide, which replaces the issue dated July 2020, reflects the removal of the bottom pay point for sergeants as well as the extension to paid maternity leave and adoption leave and to Targeted Variable Payments.
Officer numbers up by 95
Federation chair Steve Treharne says South Wales Police’s new recruits are a welcome addition to the Force at a time of unprecedented challenges.
But he said there’s still a lot of work to be done for the Force to meet its Year 1 allocation in the Government’s high-profile recruitment campaign, which aims to increase officer numbers across England and Wales by 20,000.
Chair’s praise for officers as Fed calls for ‘thank you’ payment
Police officers should be given a one-off “thank you” payment to recognise their exceptional efforts during the pandemic, says the chair of South Wales Police Federation.
Steve Treharne was commenting after the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) made its annual submission to the Police Remuneration Review Body (PRRB) with the Superintendents’ Association.
Fed to reveal how lengthy complaints system comes at a price
The national Federation will be giving evidence at a Government inquiry next week, as it outlines the costly impact the current police complaint system can have on officers.
On Wednesday (27 January), the Police Federation of England and Wales will address the Home Affairs Select Committee (HASC) as part of its inquiry into the remit of the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) and the length of its investigations.
Chair sickened at rise in assaults on emergency service workers
A rise in attacks on emergency services workers driven by the threat of weaponising Covid-19 is “absolutely sickening”, says the chair of South Wales Police Federation.
Steve Treharne called for the full weight of the law to be used against offenders who cough or spit on frontline staff while claiming to be infected with the virus.
Latest Travel Update
Cover on the travel policy is dependent upon FCO advice at the time of booking and the date of departure.
The FCO are currently advising against all but essential travel and as a result there is no cover under any section of the policy if you were to travel whilst this advice was in force.
Whilst the FCO are advising against all but essential travel if you were to book a holiday for a date later in the year there is no cover under the sections for Cancellation and Curtailment and Change of Itinerary and Travel Delay.
Season’s greetings
Christmas is certainly going to be very different this year. But, on behalf of everyone at South Wales Police Federation, I would like to wish you all the best for the festive season.
2020 has been incredibly challenging for everyone and I think we all hoped that we would be able to enjoy celebrating Christmas together with our families.
‘Officers only use force when absolutely necessary’
Officers employ force only when absolutely necessary, says South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne as new figures show a rise in its use in the last year.
A new Home Office report shows there were 492,000?recorded uses of force in the year to March – a rise of 64,000 on the previous year.
Chair praises police response to pandemic
The national chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) has told the House of Lords that police officers being labelled the villains during the pandemic was unfair and an insult.
Avoid a New Year debt hangover
Police Mutual is encouraging officers to plan and budget this Christmas to avoid a debt hangover in the New Year.
It has published a new factsheet offering guidance on how to save for Christmas and how to manage your money when the bills come in.
Survey reveals the impact of pandemic on officers
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne says the pressure of policing the pandemic is taking its toll on officers.
His comments come after the release of the findings of the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) annual pay and morale survey.
Pay freeze: are we all in this together, South Wales Police Federation chair asks?
The Government has once again demonstrated that workers in the public sector will be expected to bear the brunt of measures to reduce spending, says the chair of South Wales Police Federation.
Steve Treharne was commenting on today’s Spending Review announcement from Chancellor Rishi Sunak in which it was confirmed that public sector workers, including most police officers, will face a pay freeze as the Government tries to deal with the economic fall-out of the pandemic.
Don’t forget to use PPE
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne is urging members to continue using personal protective equipment (PPE) as new figures revealed more than 800 UK police officers have tested positive for Covid-19 during the pandemic.
The Press Association gathered figures from 24 forces across the four nations of the UK which showed 849 officers became infected.
Final days of Federation survey
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne is encouraging members to complete this year’s Demand, Capacity and Welfare Survey before it’s too late.
Police minister’s assurance on officer assaults
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne has welcomed an assurance by policing minister Kit Malthouse that custodial sentences for those who attack officers will be doubled.
Mr Malthouse told Federation reps that the Government would see through its promise and monitor the sentences that are handed out.
Your autumn magazine
The autumn edition of the South Wales Police Federation magazine features this year’s virtual National Police Memorial Day and HRH The Prince of Wales’ tribute to fallen officers.
The service encouraged family and friends to join from home by sharing images of a virtual candle and writing messages on a Tribute Wall to remember and celebrate the lives of their lost loved ones. There were also messages from Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Home Secretary Priti Patel.
Extra funding for coronavirus enforcement
The Force is being given a £670,000 boost to help fund extra patrols as part of coronavirus enforcement measures.
The Government surge funding comes as part of £60 million to be shared equally between police forces and local authorities. South Wales Police will receive £678,267 of the £30 million allocated to policing.
PC shares his fears over coronavirus cough attack
A South Wales Police officer has spoken of the moment he feared being infected with Covid-19 when he was coughed on by an offender following an arrest.
PC David Roberts-Ablett said it “played on his mind” that he’d contracted the disease when he was assaulted in Cardiff by a thug who claimed to have coronavirus symptoms.
Policing the pandemic: let us know your views
Members are being given the opportunity to express their views on policing the pandemic in a new nationwide survey.
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne is encouraging as many officers as possible to complete this year’s Demand, Capacity and Welfare Survey to help shape the Federation’s policy on a range of issues.
Fed chair in radio interview on Covid restrictions
The constant changes to coronavirus restrictions are placing huge demands on the resources of already stretched police forces, says South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne.
Steve says officers often have little time to get to grips with new lockdown legislation and what it will mean in real-life.
Speaking on national radio, he said the demand on members during the pandemic has been “exceptional”.
Officer assaults up again
A 29 per cent increase in attacks on police and front-line workers is unacceptable, says South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne.
Now Steve has called for tougher sentences for offenders who attack key workers.
His comments follow the release of new figures by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) which show a 29 per cent rise in assaults on emergency services personnel in the four weeks to 30 August compared to the same period in 2019.
Prince of Wales honours fallen officers
HRH The Prince of Wales told this year’s virtual National Police Memorial Day (NPMD) that the UK’s police officers had faced the invisible threat of coronavirus with visible courage and commitment.
The service was due to be held at Lincoln Cathedral but ongoing coronavirus restrictions made that impossible. Instead, the families and colleagues of fallen officers were encouraged to join in from their homes and share images of a virtual candle. They were also able to write messages and share memories or thoughts on a Tribute Wall to remember and celebrate the lives of their lost loved ones.
Memorial day this Sunday
There’s still time to add your message to the National Police Memorial Day tribute wall to honour and remember fallen officers.
This year’s the memorial day service was planned to take place at Lincoln Cathedral but will now be held online due to the Covid-19 restrictions.
Brave officers tried to rescue elderly man trapped in house blaze
PC Thomas Scourfield
Sgt Geraint Jenkins
Two South Wales Police officers have been nominated for the national Police Bravery Awards for attempting to save the life of a 92-year-old man who was trapped in a burning building.
PC Thomas Scourfield was off duty and driving back from the gym on 12 April 2019 when he spotted the blaze in Talbot Road, Baglan. He could hear someone screaming inside the property and forced his way in, where he discovered a woman throwing water onto an elderly man who was on the floor and on fire in the yard, near to the back door of the property.
Home Secretary backs Federation on BWV
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne says a campaign to share body-worn video (BWV) footage will help officers avoid ‘trial by social media’ and has welcomed the support of the Home Secretary.
The Police Federation of England and Wales is campaigning for forces to be permitted to share video and audio footage when selected clips of incidents involving the police are posted on the social media prompting officers to receive personal abuse because of one-sided videos.
Federation has helped shape IOPC improvements
Steve Treharne says the work of the Police Federation has contributed to improvements in the timeliness of investigations by the police watchdog.
But Steve, chair of South Wales Police Federation, welcomed new figures from the Independent Office for Police Conduct but said more can be done to continue the progress.
Police minister praises ‘outstanding’ Flint House
The police minister has warned officers that the moment they stop paying their Flint House donation is probably the moment they will need the facility.
Kit Malthouse visited the rehabilitation centre in Oxfordshire and described it as ‘outstanding’ but expressed concern that the numbers of donations were falling.
Police Covenant will benefit policing family
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne has today hailed a move to enshrine a Police Covenant in law as a huge step in supporting the welfare of members.
Steve’s comments came after the publication of a consultation which found more than 90 per cent of respondents backed Government plans for a Police Covenant.
Home Secretary in wide-ranging interview with Fed chair
The Home Secretary has compared her role as a politician with that of a police officer in an online interview with the Police Federation of England and Wales.
Priti Patel talked exclusively online to the Federation’s national chair, John Apter, and responded to his question around her passion for policing.
“It’s about the shared values we have,” she said, “Policing is in my family and I’ve seen the most extraordinary and exceptional things around policing. My work is all about putting people first and I see big similarities with policing. I’ve always had that connectivity with public service and those on the front-line who give their all to serve their communities, so I think it’s a natural affinity that we have.”
Officer safety proposals must be implemented
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne has welcomed the findings of a review into the rise of assaults on police officers.
Now Steve has called for the recommendations to be implemented and for members to be given the best available training and equipment in order to protect them and the public.
Last year there were 30,679 assaults on police officers in England and Wales, or 84 a day, which led to the comprehensive Officer and Staff Safety Review being commissioned by National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) chair Martin Hewitt.
Group Insurance Quarantine Rules
As you are aware the Welsh Government require members travelling back from these destinations to quarantine, but the national UK Government does not.
In terms of insurance the only relevant issue is the advice of the FCO and whether they advise against all but essential travel to a destination. The FCO does not advise against travel to these destinations and therefore your members can travel to them and have cover in place for medical emergencies abroad, including those related to Covid-19.
Flint House re-opens on Monday
Flint House, the police rehabilitation centre, is preparing to re-open after coronavirus forced its closure earlier in the year.
A limited number of physiotherapy patients will be able to visit the centre on a mostly non-residential basis from Monday (7 September) but some patients who have completed remote consultations may be offered a five-day residential stay following an initial coronavirus assessment and ongoing screening.
Tips for looking after your health
Police Mutual has produced a video to encourage members to adopt a healthier lifestyle to lower their risk of contracting Covid-19.
The video, hosted by Carl Laidler from Health Shield, explains how small changes can make a big difference to staying healthy during the current pandemic but that they key is avoiding underlying health issues which put some at increased risk from the virus.
Police Pension Benefit Statement information
Due to COVID-19 the Pension Regulator has extended the deadline and your new statement’s will be sent out from the Administrator between the 31st August 2020 and the 14th September 2020. Please note that the benefit statement is not a projection of benefits and is a tool to highlight data discrepancies to ensure accurate benefits on retirement .
Forces urged to share BWV footage
Forces should consider releasing police officers’ body-worn video (BWV) footage to help protect them from unfair criticism and trial by media, says South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne.
Steve is backing the national chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales, who believes forces need to try to redress the balance in response to the growing trend of officers being vilified when selective clips of their interactions with the public are shared on social media and then by the mainstream media.
“These clips tend to show only a small section of a far more lengthy interaction between officers and members of the public,” says Steve, “This can then lead to a complete misinterpretation of what actually unfolded.
Sign petition to support Harper’s Law campaign
Lissie Harper has launched a petition to back her Harper’s Law campaign which is calling for those convicted of killing a police officer, firefighter, nurse, doctor, prison officer or paramedic to face life in prison.
Lissie, widow of PC Andrew Harper, the Thames Valley Police officer horrifically killed while on duty in August last year, has thanked everyone for supporting her campaign so far and urged people to sign the petition.
IOPC seeks Federation feedback
Investigators from the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) need better training about Post-Incident Procedures, Federation conduct and performance leads have told one of the police watchdog’s senior leaders.
Kathie Cashell, the IOPC’s director of strategy and impact, took part in a virtual meeting with the Federation last week.
The IOPC is changing the way it operates and was seeking the Federation representatives’ feedback.
The conduct and performance leads reported that at times there seemed to be a ‘lack of empowerment’ and said IOPC investigators were slow in making decisions on whether an officer is a witness or a suspect or if the case will be referred to the force or the watchdog.
Federation support for Andrew’s Law campaign
PC Andrew Harper’s widow Lissie is launching a campaign for ‘Andrew’s Law’ to ensure those convicted of killing police officers and other emergency service workers face life in prison.
Lissie, working with the Police Federation of England and Wales, will call for a change to the law in meetings with Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Home Secretary Priti Patel in the coming weeks and is urging the public and politicians to get behind her campaign.
Lissie said: “I pledge to my late husband to never stop until I have made the difference that this country clearly needs. I vow to stand strong and firm with so many other honourable people in our country to make the changes that we clearly know to be justified.
Have your say on pay and morale
Members are being urged to take part in the annual Police Federation pay and morale survey.
The findings of the survey are used as evidence in the Federation’s annual submission to the Police Remuneration Review Body (PRRB) which advises the Government on officer pay.
“I would encourage every member to take the time to fill out this survey and have their say on pay and morale. This is an opportunity that we should all make the most of,” says Steve Treharne, chair of South Wales Police Federation.
“Not only does the Federation nationally use the results as part of its submission to PRRB but it also refers to the findings when meeting with Government ministers and other key stakeholders. Locally, we also use the findings when we are negotiating on officers’ behalf with our own chief officer team.
Federation Focus Summer 2020
Police to get 2.5 per cent pay rise
Police officers will receive a 2.5 per cent pay rise from 1 September this year, the Treasury has announced.
Home Secretary Priti Patel is due to make a statement to Parliament today with the recommendations of the Police Remuneration Review Body (PRRB), the independent organisation that advises on police pay.
We will publish further details when they are available.
Knife crime up by 20 per cent
Knife crime in South Wales rose by 20 per cent in the last year, according to new Government figures.
There were 885 offences involving a knife or sharp weapon in South Wales in the 12 months to March.
The figure was up from 735 offences in the previous 12 months, data from the Office for National Statistics shows.
South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne said: “Incidents involving knives can have tragic consequences for all involved. Under Operation Sceptre, South Wales Police have put in place several measures to address the concerns of our communities, and clamp down on those who are carrying and using knives. Operation Sceptre is our approach to tackling knife crime and the associated issues of serious violence and illegal drugs
Travel Insurance Update
The last few months have certainly been unprecedented, and created different and challenging issues for everybody in all walks of life. For keyworkers, such as those working in the NHS and other emergency services the demands have been enormous and the country is rightly grateful for everything they have done.
Whilst the issues faced by the travel industry have not been of the same magnitude, with holidays and flights cancelled overnight from March this year , it has certainly been a torrid time and has put significant strain on many providers which has meant that many companies will be struggling to survive.
Roads policing ‘inadequate’ say HMIC inspectors
An inspection by Government inspectors has found that roads policing is inadequate in some forces and that capability and capacity often do not meet demand.
South Wales was one of seven forces inspected by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) but officers and staff at only two – West Midlands Police and the Met – demonstrated a strong commitment to roads policing and the positive effect this had on road safety.
Cuts to roads policing budgets leading to a drop in the number of dedicated roads policing officers were blamed for a gradual increase in road deaths after more than 30 years of steadily declining fatalities.
The PAG Report & Treatment of Police Pensions upon Divorce
The report of the Pension Advisory Group (“PAG”), “a Guide to the Treatment of Pensions on Divorce” was published in July 2019.
Three recent decisions by the Family Court concerning the divisions of pensions have all referenced the PAG report as being influential on judicial decision making.
Historic virtual conference passes motion for £2 rise
17 June 2020
The subscription rate for rank and file members of the Police Federation of England and Wales is to increase for the first time in a decade after delegates at a Police Federation of England & Wales’ Virtual Conference voted for a £2 per month rise.
PFEW to launch Compensation Claim against Government
Federation Focus - Spring 2020 Newsletter
TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF SWPF LODGES AT LLANTEGLOS ESTATE, AMROTH
Warning of Phishing emails - Blue Light Card
Update on the remedy to remove discriminatory provisions from the police pension schemes
This update and the attached FAQs are relevant to all members. This is the case whether you originally qualified for any of the transitional protections or not and whether you joined the pension scheme before 1 April 2015 or on or after that date, as ultimately all members are likely to be affected in some way by the remedy.
Free 1 Day Course For NPPF Step 2 (Formerly OSPRE Part 1) Examination Candidates
Pensions further update
16 October 2019
Following a meeting of the Police Pensions Forum last week, the seven staff associations who represent police officers throughout the United Kingdom have applied to be an interested party to the Employment Tribunal tasked with determining the remedy to the discrimination caused by the transitional protections introduced in the CARE 2015 pensions scheme.
South Wales Group Insurance Scheme - Annual Report to Members
South Wales Group Insurance Scheme - Annual Report to Members - 01/03/2018 - 28/02/2019
Federation Focus - September 2019
PENSION UPDATE
Fed poised to strike back on pensions
The Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) today announces it is prepared to bring any appropriate legal claims on behalf of its membership if its expectations are not met by the Government following the latest development over pensions.
National Pay and Morale Survey 2019
The only national survey which captures members views on pay, conditions and morale launches on 10 June.
South Wales Police Federation Mobile Apps
Available to all Federation Members via the Apple App Store and Google Play Store the South Wales Police Federation Mobile Applications for 2019
Federation Focus Spring 2019
Import Message From PFEW
Police Charities UK Group
Money Matters
Police Precept Survey 2019/20
There are only 7 days left until our consultation closes. To tell us about your #policing priorities and how much extra you would be willing to pay towards policing through the #precep
South Wales Police - 7 Point Plan - Assault on Police
Annual Leave Remuneration - New National Agreement
Frontline policing review –Workshops Wednesday 28th November 2018.
At the 2018 Police Federation annual conference held on 23 May the new Home Secretary Sajid Javid, announced that he would conduct a review of front-line policing. Sponsored by the Minister of State for Police and the Fire Service, the front-line review will provide police officers and staff throughout England and Wales with the opportunity to share their ideas for change and improvement in policing.
Next Bike Promotion
The Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) welcomes the news today that the Assaults on Emergency Workers (Offences) Bill has been granted Royal Assent
The Bill makes it an aggravating factor to assault or sexually assault a police officer or any other member of the emergency services, punishable by up to 12 months in prison. While we would like to see the maximum sentence raised further, we are pleased that the Bill sends a clear signal that assaults against blue light responders will not be tolerated.
HM Treasury announce possible public pension cost cap breach
Initial findings from the public pension schemes four-yearly valuation review indicate that the cost cap has been breached. HM Treasury, who are undertaking the valuation, have announced that they will be consulting with representatives of those involved with the schemes on the next steps.
Pensions calculator
Pensions appeal rulings for firefighters and judges - latest update
The Federation has been monitoring progress in the respective Employment Tribunals and subsequent appeals for both firefighters and judges about the transitional arrangements relating to their new Career-Average Revalued Earnings pension schemes which came into effect on 1 April 2015.
Police Sport South Wales - Parkrun
Police Sport South Wales will be running another Parkrun initiative in January. Not only might this help with your New Year’s resolutions but it will give you another chance to raise money for good causes without putting your hands in your pockets.
Federation Focus - October 2017
Information on Collapse of Monarch Airlines
We have received a number of queries following the announcement on the 2nd October that Monarch Airways have ceased trading and entered administration.
We have been in touch with insurers and the below is advice and guidance should you receive any queries from members regarding travel cover as part of the
An open Letter demanding answers from the Government on the derisory pay award has been published
An open letter demanding answers from Government on the derisory pay award for police officers has been published by those representing rank and file officers from across the country.
Steve Trigg, chair of South Wales Police Federation, said: “Our members are angry and forces have been put in an impossible situation. We feel the government has not been truthful and honest about the pay award given to officers, and that is insulting’
Federation - Freedom of Information
The Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) is funded in part by police officers who pay subscriptions from their wages.
It is not a public body and not funded by the public and is the only staff association to be subject to Freedom of Information (FoI), which came into effect for the PFEW in April 2017. Much of the information you may ask for may already be on this website, so please take the time to search for what you need first.
Federation Newsletter
Champions League Overtime
We are receiving lots of queries in relation to what officers can claim in relation to the Champions league and I am hoping that what I have put together is helpful to you.