“Officers do a sterling job” – Fed Chair Zuleika says goodbye

DEPARTING South Yorkshire Police Federation Chair Zuleika Payne has paid tribute to the officers she’s leaving behind.

Zuleika has left her tole to take up a new national position at the Police Federation of England and Wales Headquarters in Leatherhead. “I don’t want officers in South Yorkshire to forget that they do an absolutely sterling job,” she said.

“Our force has been through some torrid times and we’ve experienced some real turbulence, but despite all of that officers still go out there 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and do an absolutely sterling job – so stay safe and look after each other.”

She added: “I had to do a lot of soul searching before putting myself forward for election.

“It’s a huge step and it also means being away from my home county.

“However, I do believe that one learns more when you’re out of your comfort zone. This was a challenge to me, just to push myself that little bit further.”

In her new role Zuleika will represent the North East Region at PFEW HQ and will be leading on Learning and Development for Federation Reps.

“I’ll be working with the Learning and Development manager and the team, looking at the training needs and addressing the training needs of our Representatives.

“It’s a vital role for the Police Federation. If officers are going to be privy to the best support and advice available, then it’s key that we make sure that the Representatives get the training they need.

“Key areas are conduct and performance, health and safety matters, equality and wellbeing as well as training on post-incident procedures.”

The Normington Review has meant a drop in full-time Reps at the PFEW from 30 to 24 but Zuleika says she is excited by the challenges ahead.

“Following the Normington Review the Federation looks very different. It has a very different vibe to it.

“Officers are really up against it at the moment. There are some huge issues in relation to wellbeing and some very concerning matters.

“So, the challenge for us will be how we support, represent and negotiate on behalf of our members and do that successfully.”