Christmas is traditionally a time of giving gifts, and 2020 has certainly been the year that keeps on giving, right to the end.
Police officers have long been accustomed to missing out on the full Christmas experience, working around the clock over the festive period to keep people safe, and to make sure that those who are able to take time off with their families at Christmas can enjoy that break in peace. This year, even those who do manage to get time off, will like everyone else in the country, not be enjoying the Christmas they had hoped for.
Covid-19 has dominated nearly all else this year, and has been a significant challenge for policing in many respects. I am proud to say that in Gloucestershire our officers have certainly risen to the challenge. The Constabulary responded quickly to ensure that all our officers had access to the guidance and PPE that they needed to do their job, and to provide access to easily and widely available antibody testing.
Operationally, officers have walked a narrow tightrope, balancing the need for public confidence and engagement with the requirement to enforce ever changing regulations in order to keep our communities safe. All this whilst trying to keep themselves and their families safe, and against a backdrop of increasing assaults on officers and the attempts by a despicable few to weaponise Covid against them by spitting and coughing at them.
Whilst in Gloucestershire we are fortunate to be remaining in Tier 2 for the time being, we know that this pandemic is far from over, and I am confident that our officers will continue to work hard to see our communities and each other through.
To those who are enjoying some well-earned time off, enjoy your rest, and to those who are working, stay safe and enjoy the best Christmas you can.
Steve James
Chairman
Gloucestershire Police Federation
