Police staff deserve greater recognition of their vital role in fighting crime and protecting communities, said UNISON as it launched a new initiative to highlight their work.
Speaking at the union’s annual police and justice conference in Edinburgh as the We Are Police Staff campaign was launched, UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea said:
“Politicians know they can’t win an election unless they’re trusted on law and order. But ministers have paid very little attention to the work done by thousands of police staff.
“Justice secretary Alex Chalk used his conference speech this week to praise lawyers and judges. But made no mention of all the other staff who keep the justice system running every day.
“Nor did policing minister Chris Philp when he told the public they should arrest shoplifters.
“Conservative politicians might not be able to grasp the significance of the role of police workers, but UNISON does. That’s why the union is launching its We Are Police Staff campaign.
“Policing is about so much more than just its officers. Everyone should appreciate the knowledge and skills of police staff, but they’re often invisible and behind the scenes.
“They’re dedicated, skillful and vital to the success of every force. None could function without the predominantly female workforce of scenes-of-crime officers, 999 call takers, police community support officers, witness care officers and so many other essential staff.
“Investigations and prosecutions would be nigh-on impossible without police staff. But their jobs are most at risk when budgets are cut.
“Of course more officers are needed too, but losing police staff is no help to them or local communities.
“UNISON’s We Are Police Staff campaign wants to ensure there’s real understanding of what police staff do and a recognition that communities can only be kept safe if these jobs are protected and promoted.”
Notes to editors:
– More details on the We Are Police Staff campaign can be found here.
– Christina McAnea was speaking at UNISON’s annual police and justice conference that is taking place in Edinburgh today and tomorrow (5 and 6 October). More details can be found here.
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union with more than 1.3 million members providing public services in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.
Media contact:
Dan Ashley M: 07908 672893 E: d.ashley@unison.co.uk
