OFFICERS must have the right kit to protect them during violent protests as \u201csituations can turn hostile in an instant\u201d, South Yorkshire Police Federation has said.<\/p>\n
The safety of police officers at protests has been highlighted after a PC sustained a significant slash wound to his face after being attacked by protestors at Old Trafford football ground in Manchester.<\/p>\n
The officer now has life-changing injuries and was lucky not to have lost the sight in his eye as a result of the attack.<\/p>\n
Greater Manchester Police Federation has called for officers to be appropriately equipped \u2013 including with helmets and shields \u2013 when policing protests.<\/p>\n
South Yorkshire Police Federation Chair Steve Kent agreed with that view and said police should pay less attention to public perception and instead prioritise officers\u2019 safety.
\nHe said: \u201cWe have to stop worrying about perception and concentrate on protecting our officers. They have the kit \u2013 or at least should have \u2013 so they should be wearing it.
\n\u201cIn the past I have heard of too many occasions where officers have not been in full public order PPE, the situation has changed so quickly that they haven\u2019t had time to go and get their kit on, and we are left with officers in very vulnerable positions.
\n\u201cThe recent examples of London and Old Trafford highlight this perfectly and show that situations can turn hostile in an instant. It might not be popular in the warm weather, however officers have to be in their kit from minute one when dealing with protests or potential public order situations to make sure they are as safe as possible.\u201d
\nStu Berry, Chairman of Greater Manchester Police Federation, said: \u201cWe are witnessing colleagues come under relentless attack wearing not much more than a flat cap and a high-vis jacket and with a baton to keep themselves safe.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur officers must be properly protected and appropriately equipped with public order gear \u2013 including helmets and shields \u2013 when policing these protestors.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis will in no way be the last demonstration UK police officers have to encounter as the nation unlocks, and our courageous colleagues are bearing the brunt of public frustration. They must have the appropriate kit available to protect themselves.<\/p>\n
\u201cOfficers are not \u2013 and never will be \u2013 punchbags for people protesting for their cause. We have seen too many images of police officers at protests over recent weeks with blood gushing from their faces.<\/p>\n
\u201cHow many more do we have to see? How badly does a police officer have to be injured before we do something?<\/p>\n
\u201cOur approach has to change. And it has to change now.\u201d<\/p>\n