Ben Illett

December 2021

Meet the Civil Nuclear Police Federation Reps

Can you give us a brief summary of your career history and your current rank and role?

I started with the CNC as an AFO in 2012, posted to Dounreay, and have reached the dizzy promotional heights of PC. I spent time on the IT and DS teams, plus a stint with the dog section.

- What made you want to be a Federation Representative?

I have never been shy about opening my mouth to challenge things or say things others may not. I made the decision to use this to try and affect change at the same time as working locally to support members and fighting to try and gain the best deal for the front line officers.

- Why do you think it's important for members to be supported by fellow officers as their Reps?

Fed Reps may be aware of other options available to officers in times of crisis, and potentially have a greater understanding of policies and Regulations to suit the officers' needs.

- Which areas in particular do you focus on?

I am lucky to work among a good fed team at Dounreay, I tend to focus on policy and procedure making surely it is correctly and fairly applied, as well as discussing and negotiating with unit management.

- What should members do if they're concerned about anything?

Speak up, there is never any harm in opening your mouth and raising a concern, whether it is to a line manager, Fed Rep, or through 'safe call'. Nothing would ever change if people didn't raise their concerns or observations.

- What would you say to colleagues who might wonder where their subs go?

You could/should look at the Federation like your car insurance. You hope you don't need it but you pay for it incase one day you do.

- Tell us an unusual or interesting fact about yourself?

I met David Beckham and David Moyes when they both played at Preston North End.