Police Covenant
Supporting the wider policing community and their families.
Applies to England and Wales
The Police Covenant is a pledge to do more as a nation to help those who serve this country and specifically to recognise the bravery, commitment, and sacrifices of those who work or have worked in policing.
The covenant aims to ensure that members or former members of the police workforce in England and Wales are not disadvantaged as a result of working in policing.
This page provides the latest information about the covenant.
"I passionately believe in the Police Covenant, and I am delighted to see it become law. It is a strong commitment recognising the contribution of officers, staff and their families." - Andy Rhodes, Service Director, College of Policing's National Police Wellbeing Service
What is the covenant?
The covenant is a recognition by government, policing and society as a whole, acknowledging the sacrifices made by those who work or have previously worked in our police forces.
It is intended to ensure that officers, staff, volunteers and their families are not disadvantaged as a result of their service in the police and seeks to mitigate the impact that this may have on day to day life.
"The Police Covenant gives the opportunity to make a positive impact on the mental health and wellbeing of both serving and retired officers, staff and their families. We must all work together to ensure that we make a tangible difference." - Martin Hewitt, Chair, National Police Chiefs' Council
In practical terms the covenant will:
- place a legal requirement on the government to report annually to Parliament on issues relating to police welfare, wellbeing and support
- aim to improve the working experience of people in policing
- help smooth the transition out of policing for police leavers
- provide support to the families of those working in policing
Hear from Chief Constable Andy Marsh QPM, CEO College of Policing reflecting on personal experiences from his early career.
Wellbeing support
Policy papers and consultations
- Police Covenant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
- Police Covenant pledge
- Police Covenant update: May 2022
- Police Covenant for England and Wales
Meetings and minutes
Annual reports
Last updated 26 March 2024 + show all updates
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Link added to the Police Covenant annual report 2024.
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Annual report 2023 published.
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First published.