Vote for your national chair

13 July 2018

West Midlands Police Federation members are being encouraged to take part in the latest round of Federation elections – with voting now open for the new national chair.

This is the first time in the Police Federation of England and Wales’ history that members nationwide have been able to vote for who they want to lead the organisation.

“This is a real opportunity for members to select their national chair and I would ask as many members as possible to take the time to read about the candidates and cast their vote,” says Rich Cooke, the chair of West Midlands Police Federation.

“The national chair not only has a pivotal role to play in terms of looking after members’ wellbeing but also in acting as the figurehead for the Federation on the national stage.

“The change to the election processes brought about after the independent review of the Police Federation of England and Wales means that all members can get involved and I would urge officers to have their say.”

Two candidates have put themselves forward for the role – John Apter, currently chair of Hampshire Police Federation and a key player in the national roll-out of the action plan on assaults, and Phill Matthews, the former Nottinghamshire Police Federation chair who is now the national conduct lead.

In his submission, John explains: “As a uniformed PC, I have worked in front-line operational roles for all of my service until I became the chairman of Hampshire Police Federation in 2010. Since then I have ensured the voice of our members is at the heart of everything we do.”

And he adds: “I have a proven track record of making a positive difference for our officers. I will never shy away from a fight if it is in the interest of those I am there to represent. I care about policing and the people in it. That’s why officer welfare is a priority for me.”

Meanwhile, Phill writes: “With most of my career in front-line operational policing, I know the issues you care about. I have always been there to personally help and defend officers, make your workplaces safer and press for greater recognition and reward where possible.

“I have achieved results both locally and nationally; driving reform to PFEW, campaigning on conduct reforms, officer assaults, driving legislation and many more.”

He adds: “A vote for me is a vote for a strong and effective leadership at PFEW and continued improvement.”

If you haven't received your voting code by Monday 16 July, please email your full name, force and warrant number to support@mi-voice.com. The election is being administrated by Mi-Voice.