Over the last 20 years, the Civil Nuclear Constabulary has grown, adapted, and evolved to meet new challenges and a changing operational landscape. The Federation should be no different. If we want to continue to serve our members as effectively tomorrow as we do today, we need to match that pace of change.
Part of that means looking closely at what we want from our representatives. Being a Federation rep is a significant voluntary commitment, one that takes time, dedication, and often a willingness to step away from your own work to support others. We’re hugely grateful to those who give their time in this way, and we want to make sure the role is supported, valued, and sustainable.
The CNC’s recent growth has included the addition of four new non-nuclear establishments. Our aim is to see these new sites benefit from the same level of representation that we have at other operational units, and we’re actively working to deliver this. Achieving that relies on members stepping forward to volunteer as reps; without them, our voice and presence in these locations simply can’t be as strong.
If you’ve ever thought about taking on the role, now is the time to put yourself forward. You can either speak with current reps on your unit, or if you have no local rep, please contact the Federation Exec team. You will get the training, guidance, and support you need to succeed in this role.
Training for Reps
As part of strengthening representation across all units, we’re also looking to improve how we train and prepare our reps. We’ve taken huge steps in recent years to build our reps’ skills and confidence. It was the CNPF that led the way in delivering Mental Health First Aiders in the CNC.
We now have more trained Police Friends in conduct and performance than the Federation has ever had, and we have more Post Incident trained reps than ever before, with another course planned next month. We’re also developing a new rep training package and booklet that will be given to both new and existing reps, ensuring everyone has the same clear information, guidance, and support tools from the outset.
But we also know that representation isn’t consistent everywhere. In some units, finding someone able to take on the role has been difficult. That’s a gap we need to address. Our ambition is to see well-trained, well-supported reps embedded across every division, training environment, and the Senior Officer Branch, so that every member - no matter where they work - has access to the advice, advocacy, and representation they need.
Modernising our Approach
Although these things aren’t all in place yet, we wanted to set out our direction of travel. Just as the CNC has grown in scale and capability, the Federation must be ready to grow too. As part of this, the Executive have already agreed that each Executive Committee member will take on a dedicated portfolio, helping the Federation focus expertise in key areas and better support the membership.
By modernising how we work, investing in our people, and strengthening our presence in all areas, we can make sure the Federation is as resilient, adaptable, and future-ready as the officers we represent.
The improvements we’re planning begin with a willingness to look at ourselves honestly, listen to our members, and make the changes needed to deliver on that ambition.
Darren Adams - Chair of CNP Federation