18 May 2021

Officers deserve full credit for the incredible work they have carried out during the pandemic, says the chair of South Wales Police Federation.

And Steve Treharne, speaking as Wales saw the next stage of lockdown being eased, put on record his thanks to members for rising to the challenges they had faced.

“Rapidly changing legislation and guidelines, fears about the risk of catching the virus, the everyday demands of policing compounded by the extra pressures caused by the pandemic have all taken their toll on police officers and yet they have been determined to do everything they can to serve and protect their communities,” says Steve.

“At times, despite their efforts, they have found themselves facing trial by media who some outlets seeming to criticise them whatever they did. But I firmly believe most members of the public have been appreciative and have understood the very real difficulties officers have faced.”

Wales has now moved to alert level two with the reopening of indoor hospitality and entertainment venues being among the changes to lockdown this week.

Steve was speaking after John Apter, national Federation chair, sent out a message to the public as the lockdown restrictions began to ease.

In an open letter published in the Daily Express, he said:  “This has been a very difficult time for many – losing loved ones, losing jobs, and having restrictions placed on us which would have been unimaginable before this pandemic. We have all done our best during these past 15 months and collectively our goal has been to save lives and stop the spread of this deadly virus.

“Police officers have been put in an incredibly difficult position, policing the ever-changing Covid-19 rules and legislation. 

“Without your support and understanding, their job would have been impossible. You will have seen a style of policing which has been alien to you. This is also alien to my colleagues. 

“We did not join policing to police in the way we’ve had to. But this has been necessary to protect each other and save lives.”

And in a special message of gratitude he said: “To you, the public, that silent majority who I know support my colleagues, thank you.”