Police officers across England and Wales are set to receive an
above-inflation 4.2% pay rise, the government has
announced.
The increase, which applies to all ranks up to and including
chief superintendents, forms part of a wider effort to support
frontline policing and public protection – one of the key
missions of the government's Plan for Change.
The pay increase will mean the starting salary for a police
constable will be £31,163, up to £1,256. The typical salary for a
constable who has been in post 6 years will be £50,257 and the
average earning for a chief superintendent will be £98,500. In
addition to the headline pay rise, the government is also
increasing on-call, away from home, and hardship allowances
by £10.
The pay boost reflects the bravery, professionalism and tireless
dedication of officers who protect the public, and will be
supported by £120 million from the Home Office to help protect
police force budgets.
London weighting will be boosted by 4.2%, reflecting the
demands placed on officers in the capital.
Home Secretary said:
Our brave police officers work day and night, often making
enormous sacrifices, to keep us safe. This government is proud to
back them in doing so and today's pay award is a clear signal of
our gratitude, and our determination, to ensure they are
properly rewarded for their service.
Policing is the bedrock of a secure Britain and our Plan for
Change. We are committed to investing in the frontline and
supporting officers who work every day to tackle crime, keep our
streets safe and protect our communities.
The pay rise underscores the Home Secretary's commitment
to investing in the frontline and supporting officers, and
delivering the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee. A key part
of the government's Plan for Change, this will keep our streets
safe and restore public confidence through visible,
community-focused policing.
Measures in the guarantee include:
- restoring neighbourhood policing to cut crime in our
communities and keep our streets safe
- named, contactable officers for every neighbourhood
- guaranteed police patrols in busy areas at peak times, such
as town centres
- new career pathways and standards from the College of
Policing
Making good on this commitment, the government has already
provided funding of up to £1.2 billion to police forces this
year, including £200 million to put an additional 3,000
neighbourhood officers by next spring.
