Chairman's Christmas Message

This time of year is supposed to be the season of cheer and goodwill. Regrettably for those in the police service I believe that this is in short supply. 2011 has been a challenging year for all of us in the Police Service. We are now experiencing the effects of the 'cuts', and I know that it is having an impact on all areas of policing.

There is now uncertainty in relation to pay and pensions. Winsor published his first report on our pay and conditions. No agreement could be reached and we now await the result of arbitration (PAT) to see how our pay etc is going to be affected. Whilst this is going on we also wait to see how our pensions are going to be affected, it is widely expected that contribution rates will increase every April for the next three years. However, whilst all these uncertainties are with us, I must congratulate you all in continuing to provide excellent policing services in Sussex.

The Federation both nationally and locally will do all that it can to protect your rights and conditions of service. We move into 2012 awaiting the result of the PAT and await for Winsor part 2.

I would like to wish you and your families a Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.

Bob Brown - Chairman

Sussex Police Federation