Wiltshire Police Chief Constable response to Federation survey

Chief Constable Kier Pritchard said: “Clearly, my officers, staff and volunteers are not immune to the same issues the communities we serve are facing.

“The results of the local Police Federation Pay and Morale Survey are obviously of concern to myself and the wider Executive Leadership Team.

“It shows that almost all of my officers are facing a substantial increase in the cost of living with 16% saying they never, or almost never, have enough money to cover all their essentials.

“As we all face the consequences of the cost of living pressures, pay and conditions are more vital now than ever before.

“As Chief Constable, the survey results are a sobering read and I remain totally committed to doing everything in my power to ensure the wellbeing and morale of all our officers, staff and volunteers.

“I know just how crucial it is that those protecting our communities  - especially those on the frontline - are both happy and healthy, physically and mentally.

“The service we provide to our communities is reliant on our people.

“The national Police Federation survey carries the same worrying message which we are seeing replicated here in Wiltshire.

“This survey also shows a reduction in the level of morale among our officers and an increase in the number of officers experiencing some form of stress or anxiety.

“We know that the last six months have been an incredibly difficult and demanding time for our organisation – not least following the publication of our HMICFRS PEEL report in the summer.

“I am asking everyone at Wiltshire Police to make collective efforts to improve the service we provide and I appreciate this likely in addition to the work they do each day.

“It is also important to note that the effect of real term cuts is being experienced across the country resulting in a wide scale reduction in morale, as appears to be felt across many of the public services and other emergency services.

“We continue to work tirelessly to provide the right level of support to all of our colleagues to ensure they are able to continue to provide the best possible service to the public here in Wiltshire.

“We maintain a close working relation with the Police Federation regarding the wellbeing of our workforce and we will continue to do so.

“My message to the public is clear – you should remain confident in your local force - police officers will remain dedicated and committed to their core duty of providing a visible presence to protect communities and keep them safe.”