All headlights on enforcement at Roads Policing Conference
Police Federation of England and Wales
The increasing demands on roads policing officers will garner much debate at the annual Roads Policing Conference, which starts today in Leicestershire.
With enforcement: the key to success being the theme, delegates will hear of the challenges officers are facing in this vital area of policing.
With fewer officers to enforce the laws of the roads, what are the priorities for 2017?
Hosted by the Police Federation of England and Wales and National Police Chiefs’ Council, and sponsored by MIB, the 11th annual conference is an opportunity for those who work in the roads policing arena to highlight successes, issues and best industry practice.
Constable Jayne Willetts, the Federation’s Roads Policing lead, said: “This conference is an important opportunity for policing professionals to interact and develop their knowledge and awareness at both an operational and strategic level.
"Operational roads policing officers and managers can share good practice and have the opportunity to share issues with policy makers. These conferences are key for specialist departments to engage with our stakeholders."
Transport Minister, Andrew Jones, will address the delegates on Thursday, along with the National Police Chiefs' Council lead for Roads Policing.
Chief Constable Suzette Davenport said: “This conference is an excellent opportunity for the police service and our partner agencies to come together and discuss priorities for the future of roads policing. Police forces are working to prevent harm on roads across the country through tough enforcement and creative education campaigns and we welcome the opportunity to discuss these vital issues with our partners through this conference.
We all have the same goal - working together to change people’s behaviours and keep everyone safe on the roads.”
There will also be a session focused on the need for legislation change to better protect police drivers who engage in pursuits or blue light runs, led by solicitor Mark Aldred and PFEW lead on pursuits, Sergeant Tim Rogers.
On Thursday evening, 26 January, the Outstanding Contribution to Roads Policing Award, sponsored by Irwin Mitchell, will be handed out. The award is a chance to highlight some of the fantastic work done by officers working in the roads policing field.
