Dorset Police Federation

07/10/2026

PC Alex Ayre - Help us give him the send-off he deserves

Fundraiser launched by our colleague's Alex's family

Please help me give Alex the send off he deserves. I… Leah Marchelak needs your support for PC Alex Ayre - Help us give him the send-off he deserves

06/10/2026

Remembering DC Jon Hicken, of Dorset Police, who died on duty on this day in 2019

05/10/2026

Neurodiversity and Policing webinar upcoming

The webinar will discuss the challenges neurodivergent officers may face and how they can be supported with the appropriate conversations, understanding and reasonable workplace adjustments.

The session will also highlight support services both within the policing and through external organisations.

15 October @ 10.30am.

https://pfewevents.org/neurodiversity-and-policing

30/09/2026

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Use code AUTUMN26. Terms and conditions apply – Minimum contributions apply - See website for details



policefriendly.org.uk/goal-hub/save-regularly

28/09/2026

All at Dorset Police Federation are devastated by the sudden death of our colleague PC Alex Ayre.

Alex – who died on Friday - was 24.

He had served in the Bournemouth and Boscombe area and joined the force in 2022.

Alex's family described him as a "much-loved son, grandson, big brother, little brother, nephew, cousin, best friend and such an important person to so many people".

They said: "None of us ever imagined we would be having to say goodbye to you so soon.

"Losing you has left a space in our lives that can never be filled.

"You were deeply loved and respected by your family, friends, colleagues, childhood friends and by so many people whose lives you crossed along the way."

They described him as a "handsome, charming young man" whose personality naturally drew people towards him.

The family said: "You had such a way of making people feel welcome, accepted and included, no matter who they were.

"You were always there for people, always happy to help, always thinking about how other people were feeling, and always someone people knew they could turn to when they needed you."

Chris Wood, Chair of Dorset Police Federation, said: “We are all incredibly saddened by the sudden loss of Alex.

"The thoughts of all at Dorset Police Federation are with his family, friends and close colleagues at this devastating time.

“The Federation team remains in constant contact with the Force and are supporting his colleagues as best as we can.

“If anyone needs support, the Force’s welfare team are available as are the Federation.”

28/09/2026

Thousands of police officers who have died on duty were honoured at the 23rd annual National Police Memorial Day.

Members of the police family gathered in Belfast on 27 September, to honour around the more than 4,500 officers who have lost their lives on duty.

1,500 people were in attendance.

The names of those officers who have died in the past year were read out.

PC Matthew Blades and PC Tom Clough, of Cleveland Police, PC Alice Slominska, of Bedfordshire Police, PC Jess Turnbull, of Northumbria Police, PC Mark Chester, of The Ministry of Defence Police, PC Mathew Parker, of Essex Police, PC Bradley Corke, of Kent Police, and PC Faizaan Najeeb, of Northamptonshire Police.

Karen Stacey, Secretary of Dorset Police Federation, said: "It is both humbling and a privilege to attend National Police Memorial Day here in Belfast, coming together as a police family to remember all officers who have died on duty.

“The role of a police officer is unique and tragically some of our colleagues pay the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public and their colleagues.

“On this occasion we also remember the officers who have died in service.

“It can't be underestimated the impact the loss of a police officer has on their family, friends and colleagues and the support and friendship we give each other is essential.”

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood gave a reading at the service, as did the Lady Lieutenant of Belfast Dame Fionnuala Jay-O'Boyle. And Jon Boutcher, Chief Constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

During the service, candles were lit for officers in each of the four nations.

Lighting the candle for Northern Ireland was Jackie Gorman, mother of Constable Kevin Gorman, who died 23rd November 2008, alongside three colleagues, while responding to a call for assistance when their police vehicle lost control and struck a wall.

Lighting the candle for Wales was Dorothy Ellis, mother of PC Adrian Ellis, of Gwent Constabulary, who died on 27th September 1989. Adrian was killed in a motorcycle accident while travelling to report for duty.

Lighting the candle for Scotland was Christine Fulton MBE, wife of PC Lewis Fulton, of Strathclyde Police, who died on 17 June 1994, when he was stabbed during a violent struggle as he took action to protect members of the public.

Lighting the candle for England was Chris Prior, husband of PC Rosie Prior, of North Yorkshire Police, who died on 11 January 2025, when she was struck by a lorry while assisting at the scene of a collision.

At the end of the service, the Last Post was sounded, and petals in remembrance of all the officers who have lost their lives were distributed to the congregation.

27/09/2026

Members of the paid their respects to fallen colleagues at National Police Memorial Day in Belfast today.

24/09/2026

There are 4,655 officers listed in the UK Police Roll of Honour.

They will all be remembered at The 23rd National Police Memorial Day this Sunday 27th September in Belfast

https://policememorial.org.uk/national-police-memorial-day/

22/09/2026

Holly Spillman nominated as National Rep of the Year

Holly Spillman has become a trusted and respected figure within Dorset Police Federation through her unwavering commitment to supporting colleagues, both as a Federation representative and as welfare and wellbeing lead.

For more than six years, Holly has represented members across a wide range of workplace issues, while also serving as the branch's welfare and wellbeing lead for the past four years. Balancing these responsibilities alongside a demanding role within the Safeguarding Hub, she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure officers receive the guidance, support and representation they need.

As a Fed rep, Holly has supported countless members through challenging personal and professional circumstances. Highly regarded for her extensive knowledge of Police Regulations, she has developed particular expertise in half-pay appeals, becoming a trusted source of advice for officers facing financial uncertainty while on long-term sick leave. Through regular contact, practical guidance and compassionate support, she has helped many members navigate difficult situations with confidence and reassurance.

Holly has also made a significant difference to student officers, providing support through formal review meetings and Regulation 13 processes. Her calm, supportive approach helps officers understand complex procedures while ensuring they feel listened to and valued. Recognising the importance of consistent support, she has produced a comprehensive guide for fellow Federation representatives, helping to improve knowledge and confidence across the team.

In addition, Holly regularly supports officers involved in Post Incident Procedures, offering advice, facilitating access to legal support and providing reassurance during what can often be highly stressful and traumatic situations. She also assists members facing conduct matters, guiding them through investigations and interviews with professionalism and empathy.

The impact of her work is reflected in the feedback she receives from those she supports. One member described Holly as "absolutely fantastic", adding that her encouragement and reassurance helped them remain positive during a difficult period.

Alongside her representative duties, Holly has delivered meaningful improvements in her role as welfare and wellbeing lead. She has been instrumental in reinvigorating Operation Hampshire, working with key stakeholders to identify and implement national best practice. Her efforts have helped strengthen support for officers assaulted while on duty and ensured their welfare remains a priority.

Holly is also leading preparations for the implementation of the Victim and Witness Support Programme, developing guidance and resources to ensure colleagues are fully prepared ahead of the national rollout. Beyond Dorset, she represents the branch as lead for the Police Federation Detectives' Forum, ensuring local experiences and perspectives help shape national discussions.

Known for her positive attitude, approachable nature and willingness to help others, Holly is a valued colleague and an outstanding advocate for members. Through her professionalism, compassion and dedication to officer welfare, she continues to make a lasting difference to the lives of those she supports and embodies the very best of the Police Federation.

Dorset Police Federation chair Chris Wood said: "Holly is an exceptional Federation representative who consistently puts the welfare and wellbeing of our members at the heart of everything she does. Her knowledge, compassion and professionalism have helped countless officers navigate some of the most challenging periods of their careers.

“Whether supporting members through complex processes, leading wellbeing initiatives or championing improvements across the force, Holly always goes above and beyond. Her dedication, positive attitude and unwavering commitment to helping others make her a hugely valued colleague and an outstanding ambassador for the Police Federation."

21/09/2026

Colleagues only have until next week to get their nominations in for the 2027 Dorset Police Federation Recognition Awards.

The Federation’s Wonderful Winter Awards Ceremony is coming back in February - once again recognising and celebrating Police Officers who have gone above and beyond in their difficult roles.

Acts of bravery, incredible operational and investigative work and amazing officers who go over and above from all the Federated ranks will be highlighted.

Please email the office with details of who you would like to nominate [email protected]

Categories to consider include Frontline Officer of the Year, Investigator of the Year, Operational Support Officer of the Year, Sergeant of the Year, Inspector or Chief Inspector of the Year and Colleague of the Year.

The closing date for nominations is the end of September 2026.

Winners will then be informed of their success and be invited to the prestigious evening in February.