Police officers were promised a 2% pay rise from 1 September. However, in reality, they are only receiving a 1% increase in their pay packets. Last year’s 1% rise was partly a one-off bonus, which means the full 2% increase for this year does not add up as the Government claimed.
The Government has confirmed that police forces will have to fund the pay rise themselves, putting further strain on already tight budgets. Hampshire Police Federation Chairman John Apter expressed his frustration, telling Police Oracle: “I am angry at the government who yet again have shown nothing but contempt for hardworking police officers.”
He added that the Government ignored the Independent Pay Review Body’s recommendation for a higher pay award. The Police Remuneration Review Body (PRRB) suggested that the 1% non-consolidated bonus from last year should be added on top of this year’s 2% rise. The Government rejected this recommendation.
The Home Office stated that “police employers advised that the maximum affordable amount is a 2% rise,” which effectively means only a 1% consolidated pay increase for officers. In contrast, other public-sector workers, such as teachers, are set to receive a 3.5% pay rise, with the Government covering the additional costs.
Unlike schools, policing will not receive extra Government funding for the pay rise. Instead, police forces must find the necessary money within their existing budgets. The recent £460 million boost via Council Tax precepts is expected to cover the pay award.
The Home Office reports that the average pay for a police constable is now £38,600. The pay package includes a 2% rise across all ranks, a 2% increase in 1 Weighting payments, and a 2% hike in dog handlers’ allowances. Recruit salaries, including PC degree apprenticeships, will range from £18,000 to £23,586 according to PRRB recommendations.
Originally published by UKNIP.
