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Politicians and police leaders gathered with award nominees and their families at the 29th Police Bravery Awards where the new Home Secretary and Policing Minister spoke of their pride in policing but recognised the challenges ahead to make the country’s streets safer.
Speaking at her first public event for policing as Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper said it was an enormous privilege to be at Police Bravery Awards, adding that she had attended the last 14 in her shadow role. Earlier in the day, award nominees attended a reception at Downing Street – the first of this new government. She said, with some humour, she was still getting used to the change in roles from opposition to government.
“It is a real honour to be able to come out of the shadows after such a long time. To support you and to pay tribute to you as your Home Secretary this year.”
She took time to thank the partners and families of those recognised at the awards, saying that it was only possible because of their love and support. With 102 award nominees (and a police dog) drawn from 39 forces, the ceremony saw over 200 people gather to recognise their bravery. There are ten regional category awards an one overall national award winner.
“This is a job like no other. Those of you who have been nominated tonight have responded like no other and have really gone above and beyond to keep us safe. That is why we all owe you so much thanks.”
Looking to the future and working with the Police Federation England and Wales, the host of the awards sponsored by Police Mutual, the Home Secretary said she wanted to work to restore confidence, raise standards and shine a light on the good work. She referenced the upcoming distribution of the first Elizabeth Emblems and her commitment to the Police Covenant.
“We have optimism and determination. We know there will be challenges ahead. When we stand together with pride and the tradition of policing by consent. I am so proud of British policing.”
Dame Diana Johnson is the new Policing Minister, appointed earlier this week. She is the former chair of the Home Affairs Committee. Speaking before announcing the national award, she said she was pleased that these awards were the first formal policing event she had been involved in, saying that she was struck by how impressive the nominees were.
“You may see it as part of your job but to the rest of us your bravery speaks volumes about your character.
“Our quest to change the country calls for bravery, for camaraderie, for skill and sacrifice. these intangibles must flow through policing to make your streets safer.
“Be really proud of what you do. It could not matter more.”
Dame Diana Johnson, Policing Minister.
The national winners of the Police Bravery Award are PCs Joe Gerrard and Allanah Mulhall from the Met Police. They are shown in the photograph above with their fellow officers, the Commissioner, the leadership of the Police Federation and the Policing Minister.
Both officers were recognised for their bravery in attending an incident in central London where they were confronted by a man with a knife and were subject to violent attack that left them both requiring surgery for their injuries. They have returned to duties and contributed to operational learning to reduce the likelihood of a similar incident occurring again.
A full list of award nominees and winners can be found on the Police Federation website.
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