South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne has today hailed a move to enshrine a Police Covenant in law as a huge step in supporting the welfare of members.

Steve’s comments came after the publication of a consultation which found more than 90 per cent of respondents backed Government plans for a Police Covenant.

The Home Secretary revealed the results in a virtual speech to the Police Superintendents’ Association, where she announced a covenant would be enshrined in law.

“The decision to enshrine a Police Covenant in law is to be welcomed,” said Steve. “It is a huge step in the right direction to supporting the work of every member of the Force.

“The hard work and bravery of officers and staff has kept people safe during the pandemic and continues to do so.

“It’s only right that, while they put themselves in harm’s way, they have the support and recognition they deserve in the form of a Police Covenant.”

The covenant will apply to serving and former police personnel and creates a statutory duty for forces to support them.

It will focus on protection, health and wellbeing, and support for them and their families, and places a requirement on the Home Secretary to report annually to Parliament.

John Apter, the chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW), said: “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.”

It follows a campaign by the national Federation which included a public consultation process that found more than 90 per cent of respondents backed Government plans for a covenant.

During her speech to the Police Superintendents’ Association, Ms Patel outlined a commitment to stand firmly by the side of police.

She 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 Government proposals ensure the covenant applies to all those working within or retired from policing roles, whether paid or as a volunteer. A new governance structure is planned to drive future activity on wellbeing and protection to fulfil the covenant.