Local MP, Caroline Dinenage, has welcomed the news that the new police covenant will not only work to physically protect police officers, but support their mental wellbeing and families also.
Caroline has met with local police officers throughout the course of the pandemic to keep updated and offer her support where it might be needed. Caroline has also been regularly briefed by the Hampshire Chief Constable as part of the Local Resilience Forum.
In a recent consultation, out of 1000 responders 90 per cent backed government plans for a police covenant.
Home Secretary Priti Patel said:
“The police and the families that stand behind them deserve special recognition.
“Their bravery and sacrifices are what keep us and our loved ones safe.
“I will put the police covenant in law to ensure they will always have the support of the nation.”
The outlined proposals to implement the Covenant include enshrining it in law, placing a requirement on the Home Secretary to report on progress, ensure that the covenant protects both serving and former personnel as well as focusing on protecting officers.
John Apter, National Chair, Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW), said:
“PFEW have campaigned relentlessly for a police covenant and we are delighted it will now be enshrined in law and subject to regular Parliamentary scrutiny.
“This covenant will mean much more than words to serving or former police officers. It recognises the unique position they hold in society and the fact they very often put their lives on the line.
“The benefits of this police covenant will be welcomed by the entire policing family. We would therefore like to thank the Home Secretary for her enthusiastic support and for turning PFEW’s campaign for a covenant into a reality.”
Hampshire Constabulary this year have already received an extra £26.1 million, an increase of 7.7%, to tackle crime. The Constabulary is set to receive an additionally 156 officers this year, with more to come in the future, as part of the Conservatives’ plan to recruit an extra 20 000 police officers.
Caroline commented:
“I am really pleased to see that these new powers in the Covenant will put a duty on the government to protect the officers that are out there keeping us and our families safe.
“I am regularly in contact with local police and I know that our officers put their lives on the line, often facing abuse, to keep our streets safe and make our community feel protected against criminals. It is our responsibility to ensure that they are protected in return.”
