News

Dyfed-Powys Police sees surge in voluntary resignations amid nationwide trend

Published

1 year ago

August 15, 2023

A GROWING number of officers are voluntarily parting ways with Dyfed-Powys Police, according to the latest figures.

The Police Federation of England and Wales highlights an alarming trend – police resource demand exceeding supply. The number of officers opting for voluntary resignation has hit a record peak across England and Wales.

Data from the Home Office indicates that 23 full-time officers chose to leave Dyfed-Powys Police in the year ending March, a rise from 18 the previous year. Factoring in retirements and dismissals, the force witnessed 73 departures last year, equating to a 5.9% leavers rate when not accounting for transfers.

In a broader perspective, 4,575 full-time officers across England and Wales handed in their resignations last year, marking a substantial 33% jump from the 3,433 in 2021-22. This brings the overall leavers rate to an unprecedented 6.6%.

Steve Hartshorn, the national chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales, voiced concerns mirroring those raised by numerous officers. Hartshorn stated, “Despite our members’ unwavering dedication to public safety, the imbalance between demand and resources persists.” Emphasising the significance of not just recruiting but also retaining officers, he pressed for improvements in pay and conditions. “The future must center on restoring pay,” he commented.

While resignations were high, the joining rate stood robustly at 11.1%. Consequently, the total number of officers increased from 140,200 in March 2022 to 147,400 by March 2023. However, Hartshorn pointed out that this is a modest increase from the 143,700 officers in 2010, especially considering the UK’s booming population and the ever-evolving complexity of crime.

Dyfed-Powys Police force numbers grew modestly, tallying 1,294 officers in 2023 from 1,230 the previous year.

Responding to the findings, a Home Office spokeswoman remarked, “We’ve achieved record police staffing levels across England and Wales. This major investment signals our expectation for these numbers to hold steady, with police forces having solid strategies to guarantee this.” She also added a silver lining: “Our recent survey revealed 82% of new recruits are content with their roles, and 77% envision a lifelong career in policing.”

Business

Pure West Radio brings festive cheer with ‘Pure X-Mas’ on DAB

Published

8 hours ago

December 5, 2024

Tom Sinclair

PEMBROKESHIRE residents can now enjoy the perfect festive soundtrack as Pure West Radio launches its dedicated Christmas station, “Pure X-Mas,” on DAB radio. Running from Saturday (Nov 30) to New Year’s Eve, the station promises nonstop Christmas music and holiday cheer for all listeners.

“Pure X-Mas” offers an exciting mix of timeless classics and modern holiday hits, creating a joyful atmosphere for decorating trees, wrapping presents, or simply enjoying the season.

Station Manager Toby Ellis said:
“This Christmas, we’re making it easier than ever for Pembrokeshire and beyond to tune into the magic of the season. Pure X-Mas on DAB is our gift to the community – a station entirely dedicated to spreading festive joy and creating lasting memories.”

Exclusively available on DAB, “Pure X-Mas” guarantees crystal-clear sound and easy access for listeners across North and South Pembrokeshire. Simply tune your DAB radio to Pure West Radio’s dedicated Christmas station and immerse yourself in the spirit of the season.

Community

Brave special guardians to share their stories at Torch Theatre

Published

9 hours ago

December 5, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE TORCH THEATRE is set to host a poignant event on Thursday, December 12, celebrating the experiences of Special Guardians. Running from 1:00pm to 2:30pm, the event will feature eight courageous Special Guardians sharing their stories, alongside Sophie Pierce, the visionary behind this groundbreaking project.

The showcase will blend professionally produced films with heartfelt personal storytelling, offering a unique insight into the lives and contributions of Special Guardians. This event aims to shine a spotlight on their vital, often unrecognized roles, amplifying their voices and calling attention to their experiences in an unprecedented way.

Organisers hope the presentation will resonate with audiences both locally and nationally, sparking greater awareness and inspiring changes in policies to better support these dedicated individuals.

Angela Moore, a project worker with Pembrokeshire County Council’s Family and Friends Team, shared her aspirations for the event: “We want to get these films seen, and their words heard, nationally to increase awareness and recognition of the vital role Special Guardians play and to support policy improvement.”

Tickets for this inspiring event are free, but attendees are encouraged to reserve their seats in advance by emailing Angela Moore at [email protected].

Don’t miss this chance to honour the remarkable contributions of Special Guardians and experience their powerful stories brought to life.

News

Crash closes Pembroke road for over two hours

Published

10 hours ago

December 5, 2024

Tom Sinclair

EMERGENCY SERVICES were called to St Daniel’s Hill, Pembroke, this morning (Thursday, December 5) following a two-vehicle collision that left one person injured.

The crash occurred on the B4319 at around 7:30am, leading to the road being closed while both vehicles were recovered. The route was reopened at approximately 9:30am.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson confirmed: “Officers received a report of a two-vehicle road traffic collision on the B4319 at about 7.30am. The road was closed while both vehicles were recovered and reopened shortly after 9.30am. The ambulance service attended to assist one person who was reported to have sustained injuries.”

An ambulance also attended.