Page 12 - WMPF Federation April-May2021_Neat

New legislation

Federation set to

welcome Specials

as members

he Force’s Special Constables should Federation has done its best to support representation during performance and
soon be able to access the wealth of them on an informal basis, it will be much misconduct proceedings.
Tsupport and advice provided by the better when this has been put on a more This will form part of the support
Police Federation. firm footing. package to ensure they know their rights
The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts “I think this move is also a clear sign of and entitlements and means they will
Bill includes provision for Specials to the positive way in which the contribution of receive the right support if any workplace
subscribe to the Police Federation for the Specials is now recognised and I think this issues are encountered.
first time. has been even more evident during the As Federation members, Specials will for
“The Police Federation has been pandemic when Specials have volunteered also the first time be able to apply for legal
campaigning for Specials to have access to thousands of hours of service to be on the assistance in criminal, conduct and civil
the Federation’s support services for around policing frontline.” cases as well as gaining access to Member
10 years now,” says Jon Nott, chair of West Jon added: “We are looking forward to Service offers.
Midlands Police Federation, “So I am pleased welcoming Specials as subscribing members The national Federation’s Special
that this has been successful. of West Midlands Police Federation and will Constabulary lead Dave Bamber continued:
“Our Special colleagues give up their do our utmost to represent them and ““Nobody has ever really fully represented
own time to support policing and work side negotiate on their behalf.” the Special Constabulary regarding
by side with regular officers to serve and Joining more than 130,000 regular regulations or formal negotiations. Nobody
protect our communities, facing similar constables, sergeants, inspectors and chief has been on the side of Specials during
risks and dangers but without any of the inspectors as Federation members, Specials conversations with key decision-makers -
benefits of Federation membership. will be able to receive support and advice and now the Federation will be. It is a really
“For far too long it has appeared that no from elected workplace reps and will also be proud moment for the Federation and a
one has had their back and, while the able to call on expert advice and historic move.
“ We are looking forward to welcoming legal protections, support with workplace
“It is only right Specials receive the same

grievances and negotiations over conditions
Specials as subscribing members of West
as their regular counterparts.”
Midlands Police Federation and will do our
The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts
utmost to represent them and negotiate on Bill is expected to continue to progress
through Parliament before becoming law
their behalf. “ later this year.

12 federation April/May 2021 www.polfed.org/westmids