Leicestershire Police Federation Chair welcomes pay rise of 2.5% for officers

21 July 2020

Leicestershire Police Federation Chair welcomes pay rise of 2.5% for officers

Police Officers in England and Wales will receive a 2.5% pay rise - to take effect from 1 September - 2020 after the Government accepted in full the recommendations of the Police Remuneration Review Body.

The Police Federation of England and Wales said that the 2.5% increase in pay across all ranks “is a step in the right direction and, whilst it is less than the we asked for, will be broadly welcomed against a backdrop of financial pressures on the economy.”

It was also announced that the Dog Handlers’ Allowance will increase by 2.5%, there will be the removal of the lowest point on the sergeants’ pay scale and that the London Allowance will increase by £1,000.  

Dave Stokes, Chair of Leicestershire Police Federation, said: "As the Chair of Leicestershire Police Federation, a pay rise of any description is welcomed. I’ve seen how hard our officers have worked during COVID-19. Long hours, days off being cancelled, exposed to the risk associated with Covid-19 and more importantly, being away from family during a national crisis.

"Over the last decade, police pay has been reduced and reduced. On top of that, reduced police numbers has meant that officers work/life balance has been hugely effected. 

"Long hours are expected at all ranks and in the Home Secretary era of Theresa May, overtime was reduced significantly.

"In summary, a 2.5% pay rise is welcomed but must be taken in the context that when measured against police pay cuts over the last 10 years, officers are still working more hours for less pay and the 2.5% is small in comparison."

PFEW National Chair John Apter said: “In the current financial climate with so much uncertainty, the fact the Government has fully accepted the recommendations of the PRRB will come as a relief.

“Do my colleagues deserve more? Absolutely, and the Government must go further to pay officers fairly for the unique and dangerous job they do.  

“However, with the economic vulnerability we face as a country, many colleagues will be relieved to receive a 2.5% pay increase - anything lower would have been completely unacceptable.”

The PFEW in its submission to the Police Remuneration Review Body had asked for 5%.

Mr Apter continued: “It is positive to see the Government abiding by proper process and accepting all the recommendations of the PRRB. This has not always been the case.

“We will continue to fight to get our members the pay they deserve following a real-terms cut of 18% during the last decade, the effects of which have taken their toll.”

Home Secretary Priti Patel said: "Our amazing police have responded to unprecedented challenges during coronavirus. To recognise their immense efforts, we will be increasing their pay this year. To everyone in the policing family - thank you.”

National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for pay and conditions, Chief Constable Matt Jukes, said: “The commitment of our officers to keeping our communities safe every day, not least during the recent challenging period, rightly deserves recognising.

“Given our difficult financial times, it is very welcome news the government has accepted the Pay Remuneration Review Body’s recommendation for an increase in police pay above the rate of inflation.

“Chief Constables welcome the endorsement of our proposals on targeted variable pay and sergeants’ pay. Taken together this will contribute to ensuring specific roles in the service are filled and to supporting the ongoing recruitment of officers.”