A brand-new gift is being launched in the new year, exclusively for members of the South Wales Group Insurance Scheme (GIS) – with all ranks, roles and departments to be recognised.
Any member of the Scheme who retires after 1 January 2026 will be presented with a carefully crafted, bespoke Welsh slate memento designed to honour their hard work, dedication, and service.
Eligible members will be those with at least 20 years of service and a minimum of five years’ membership in the GIS.
Speaking about the new initiative, branch chair and GIS Trustee Phil Walker said: “This gift aims to ensure that those who have shown loyalty to both South Wales Police and the GIS receive a fitting token of appreciation.”
Welsh slate
The slate pieces have been developed in partnership with ‘The Slate House’, a local business specialising in authentic Welsh slate – a material chosen not only for its local significance but also for what it represents: strength, longevity, and a deep connection to the community.
Full-time Federation representative Nick Miller, who has project-led the initiative, said: “For years, the tradition across policing has centred on celebrating 30 years of service. But as the policing landscape continues to evolve, so too must the ways we recognise the people who have devoted so much of their lives to serving the public.
“Today, careers look different, roles are changing, and many officers and staff retire before reaching that traditional milestone – yet their contribution remains no less significant.
“The new slate retirement gift recognises this shift.”
Nick added that the local collaboration reinforces the Federation’s commitment to supporting businesses within Wales while ensuring each retiree receives something unique, durable, and symbolic.
The retirement slate is designed to sit comfortably alongside long service medals, marking a retiree’s transition from active service to civilian life.
Nick continued: “They represent a bridge between their policing career and the next chapter.
“Once you leave the organisation, and you’ve paid into the GIS for at least five years, you’re deserving of such an award.
Group Insurance Scheme
“And I want to stress, it’s not just for officers – these will be for all eligible members of the GIS, including staff.
“They pay into the GIS, they support the organisation, and they’re part of the police family.”
By extending this gesture to both officers and staff across South Wales Police, the Federation hopes to reinforce the sense of unity and belonging that underpins the policing community.
“It brings us closer. It brings us more together,” Nick continued.
“Anyone who comes under South Wales Police and meets the criteria qualifies. We need to do better when officers and staff retire – and I’m glad to say that we can fund this through the GIS.”
If you are not already a member of the GIS and would like more information on joining, then visit the GIS page on our website.
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