Fairer treatment secured for injured officers after change in compensation guidance

The changes come after the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) raised concerns that too many officers were being unfairly denied compensation under outdated guidance.

With assaults on officers at record levels, many injuries sustained while detaining or restraining violent offenders were previously not recognised as resulting from a “crime of violence”, nor as involving “exceptional risk”. This meant police officers were effectively excluded from claims despite the clear danger and harm involved in their work.

Following a joint submission from the National Police Wellbeing Service (NPWS) and the PFEW, supported by detailed case evidence, the issue was reviewed by the Ministry of Justice and Home Office. Revised guidance was published earlier this month.

The updated rules now make clear that when an emergency worker is injured by someone violently resisting arrest or restraint, decision-makers must fully consider whether the offender’s actions amount to a crime of violence – including cases involving recklessness.

The PFEW says this clearer interpretation gives officers injured through violent or reckless behaviour a stronger and fairer basis for claiming compensation.

Belinda Goodwin, PFEW National Board member, said: “This is an important win for our members and all emergency workers. Too often, officers injured protecting the public were told their injuries didn’t ‘count’ under the rules. That was plainly unfair.

“Thanks to our pressure and evidence, that wrong has been put right. The guidance finally recognises the real-world risks our members face every day and ensures they can access the compensation they deserve when things go wrong.”

Andy Rhodes, director of the NPWS, said: “This change reflects a shared understanding that our people face danger and trauma as part of their duty to protect others.

“The updated guidance rightly acknowledges that reality. I’m grateful to all who engaged constructively to make this happen: it’s a great example of collaboration in action for the good of those who serve.”

The revised CICA guidance for assessors includes new examples on recklessness, operational context and the definition of a ‘crime of violence’.

Dave Brewster, Operatio Hampshire lead for the NPWS, said:

“Emergency workers hold a unique position in society insomuch that they are often obligated to act in the face of violence, aggression or in hostile environments on behalf of the public.

“On too many occasions these scenarios result in significant injury owing to either a direct assault or the recklessness of the offender.

“This is a piece of work that I am pleased to have been able to assist with, working in partnership with colleagues in the PFEW, and I’m grateful to Belinda Goodwin for gathering the evidence to articulate our case.

“The improved guidance is a real positive and we now must ensure that we provide best evidence in applications for compensations to ensure we meet the standard required.”