Injured officers facing significant pension cuts

South Wales Police officers forced to retire early because of poor health or injury could face significant cuts to their pensions.

Assistant Chief Constable Nick Croft of South Wales Police explained that officers who retire on grounds of ill health as a result of an injury received in the execution of their duty are entitled to an ‘injury on duty’ award, in addition to their normal police pension.

The force made the decision to make financial cuts following guidance issued by the Home Office four years ago.

“In 2004 a Home Office circular was issued to all forces in England and Wales advising the injury on duty award should be reduced to its lowest banding upon reaching the age of 65,” said ACC Croft.

“Providing compensation for former officers aged 65 years or older for a lack of earnings capability as a constable, regardless of any injury, then ceases to apply as the individual could no longer be employed as a police officer.

“It is important to stress that these retired officers are still in receipt of their normal police pension, the same as officers who have served for 30 years and retired in normal circumstances.”