SURREY’S Police and Crime Commissioner, Lisa Townsend, has welcomed a 4.2 per cent pay rise for police officers in England and Wales.
The Government last week accepted recommendations from the Police Remuneration Review Body to increase the pay award for all ranks, up to and including Chief Superintendent.
Many police forces, including Surrey, had budgeted for a 2.8 per cent increase in police officer wages for this year, and the Government has said it will provide an additional £120million grant nationally to meet the additional cost. It is not yet known how much of the grant will be allocated for Surrey.
There is no confirmation yet if that grant will continue to be made to forces in future years.
In Surrey, the cost of the additional pay rise, if it was not funded by the Government, would equate to an extra £6 on the precept, the part of council tax that goes towards policing in the county.
Officer pay to rise
The Commissioner said: “Our police teams in Surrey routinely put themselves in harm’s way to protect residents. They run towards incidents that others run from to keep communities safe.
“I am delighted with the news that the Government is recognising the amazing job they do. This increase in pay is the least they deserve for their professionalism, dedication and service.
“I would also like to pay tribute to the work of police staff, whose increase will not be funded by the Government, but who are no less deserving.
“Scenes of crime investigators, 999 and 101 call-takers, PCSOs, dog handlers and designated detention officers are all examples of police staff roles, and their value to Surrey Police cannot be overstated.
Commissioner’s warning
“The wage increase, as welcome as it is, exceeds the salary increases budgeted for by many forces, including Surrey.
“While the £120m grant is welcome to help us meet the additional cost of the pay award, it does not factor in other costs, including pensions and overtime.
“It is no secret that policing is under significant financial pressure and rising demand.
“Here in Surrey, we are poorly-served by the funding formula and receive the lowest level of Government grant in England.
Call to Government
“Our residents contribute 55 per cent of the total cost of policing through council tax, while the remaining 45 per cent is provided as a grant.
“I am now calling on the Government to confirm that it will commit to funding this pay increase in future years
“This funding settlement must be sustainable, or in the longer-term Surrey Police and other forces may face challenges that impact the delivery of both policing and financial planning.
“Policing in Surrey and around the country is becoming ever more complex. I remain committed to ensuring our officers and staff can meet that challenge.”