Kent police officers encouraged to throw their hats in the ring and become Federation reps

2 July 2021

Kent Police officers have been invited to throw their hats into the ring and take on a role with Kent Police Federation. 

The triennial elections kicked off on 1 July with nominations for workplace representatives. Hopefuls have until Thursday 22 July to submit their nomination, with elections to follow from 29 July to 19 August.

Neil Mennie, Kent Police Federation Chair, said the role can provide very rewarding and interesting work and that he would encourage people from all backgrounds and units to apply. 

He said: "There are many critics of the Fed who don’t really understand what the Fed actually does. It is a bit like housework. No-one notices it until it isn’t done. It is much more than conduct; it is health and safety issues, equality, diversity, grievances, workplace issues and general advice around regulations and claims. The list goes on.

“I would encourage anyone who is interested to speak to someone who is already serving as a rep to find out what the role entails. Being a rep gives you the opportunity to help colleagues in a range of different areas, often when they are at their lowest. It can be a very lonely place when they feel they are in trouble, so helping colleagues out can be really rewarding.” 

Federation reps gain invaluable knowledge of regulations and misconduct procedures and can benefit from courses and qualifications that otherwise wouldn’t be available. They also get a chance to meet with other reps, share their experiences and are able to influence and negotiate in other areas and departments, Neil said. 

He added: “I was an armchair critic of the Fed when I joined back in 2007, but it was only when I saw how they helped a colleague of mine, and saw all the important work they did, that it piqued my interest. I’m happy to have been involved ever since.” 

Find out more about the role of a rep and the triennial elections at www.polfed.org/elections