With mixed emotions, I write to inform you that I have given the CNPF Executive prior notice that I intend to stand down as the CEO of the Civil Nuclear Police Federation.
When I took up a full-time post in 2019, I had been the Sellafield Federation Unit Chair for some 4 years prior. I had long been driven by a desire to support people through difficult times. The roles of both Chair & CEO enabled me to continue doing that, but on a bigger scale.
It has been a great privilege to have led the Federation and work alongside the force through some good, but also some very challenging, times. It’s testament to our small team that we have collectively worked through what has arguably been the most difficult period policing has faced for decades. Politics, pandemics, public inquiries and a duty of candour for policing, to name but a few.
There will always be more work to do, but I genuinely feel like we have made a positive difference and improved many areas.
I was advised by my predecessor that ‘your job is to leave it in a better place than when you received it’ and to be fair, I am content that’s the position we are in. As a Federation we are now more capable, with more fully trained reps who are gaining valuable experience all the time. We are more financially stable which is crucial in ensuring we can provide legal and other support to those who need it most, and we have had some decent wins for our members, the latest of which is unsocial hours allowance and comms will be circulated on this issue shortly.
We have also built some lasting relationships both within force and outside, for example with political figures and other Federations. This isn’t always easy given our responsibility to offer constructive criticism, but I am grateful to those who engage with us so positively.
And on a personal note, I have been able to continue directly supporting my colleagues throughout this time, which has been humbling.
So why am I standing down when the going is good?
The CNPF role is all encompassing and, in my view, to do it well you really do have to give it your all – which I hope I have done. However, giving it your all, especially over a sustained period (coming up to six years for me), can mean the role takes its toll and you risk burnout. I’m also conscious of the continued impact on my family. They have always been very supportive, but let’s face it, they have had to live with the time-consuming nature of this role vicariously through me.
So, strong Cumbrian persona aside, I have recognised it’s time to pass the Federation baton to the next unsuspecting person and return to uniform policing. It has been a tough decision and not one I have taken lightly but thinking logically (and perhaps selfishly) about my own wellbeing, family and future, the timing feels right.
I have also decided not to continue as a Federation rep, for now at least. I think it’s important my successor has a clear run at leading the Federation in the way they see fit, without me as some kind of spectre at the feast lurking in the background.
Next steps
In the coming days I will be publishing the process for those who may wish to apply for the role of CEO of Civil Nuclear Police Federation. A role requirement will be made available, and candidates will be asked to set out their approach to delivering key priorities.
Depending on how many people apply, this stage will be followed by a round of interviews. The successful applicant will then work alongside me to gain a detailed handover.
Watch this space for further details.
And finally…
One matter I am keen to resolve before I leave the Federation is pensions. I thought, last week, that we had finally cracked this long-standing issue, only to hit another speedbump. Based on conversations that are happening right now, I’m hoping this will be resolved in the coming weeks before I return to force.
Please be assured my intention to stand down will not prevent me from doing everything I can to ensure the right outcome for you.
You will hear more from me as we finalise my succession plan but for now, thank you for your support.