92% of Cheshire Police officers feel underpaid for their role

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 31 Oct, 16:08 · Archive

A national survey finds 92 per cent of Cheshire Police officers believe their pay does not reflect the stresses of policing.

The Police Federation of England and Wales' 2026 Pay and Morale Report reveals that 92 per cent of Cheshire Police officers feel their pay does not reflect the 'stresses and strains' of policing. A further 86 per cent expressed dissatisfaction with their overall pay and conditions.

The survey highlights significant operational pressures affecting officers' wellbeing. Sixty-three per cent report their workload is too high, whilst 68 per cent have had at least one rest day cancelled in the past year. Forty-five per cent reported being physically attacked in the line of duty during the same period. Additionally, 18 per cent of officers regularly struggle to meet household financial needs.

Jamie Thompson, chair of Cheshire Police Federation, said the force is 20 per cent above the national average for cancelled rest days and shifts altered at short notice, which impacts family life. He noted that officers have faith in Cheshire Police as an organisation generally, and a four per cent reduction in resignation intentions was positive. However, he highlighted the 'stark figures' around annual leave and rest day availability as a concern.

Despite the challenging conditions identified in the survey, only nine per cent of officers said they intend to resign within the next two years or as soon as possible.

How it is being reported

• Damning survey finds 92 per cent of Cheshire Police officersfeel underpaidCheshire Police: 92% of officers say pay fails to reflect policing pressures, while survey highlights high workloads, cancelled rest days and poor wellbeing.Northwich Guardian · 31 Oct, 15:00
• Damning survey finds 92 per cent of Cheshire Police officersfeel underpaidCheshire Police: 92% of officers say pay fails to reflect policing pressures, while survey highlights high workloads, cancelled rest days and poor wellbeing.Warrington Guardian · 31 Oct, 15:00

In this story: Cheshire Police · Police Federation of England and Wales · Jamie Thompson · Cheshire

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