Police Christmas Initiative Aims to Boost Morale and Officer Welfare

ASP Smith noted that policing is demanding work that often requires officers to be away from their families, especially during holidays, and small gestures like these, help to reinforce that their service is valued.  She added that the initiative reflects a growing emphasis on officer welfare and morale, which she says ultimately translates into better service to the public.  Another gesture shown to officers was the return of Christmas parties for the children of police officers.

Stacy Smith, Assistant Superintendent of Police: “We were also able to bring back the Christmas party for the children of police officers because as the Commissioner often says the family of police officers serve alongside us. So we found it important that that appreciation was extended to them. We have a long time done a lot of outreach to members of the community, to children in the community and we oftentimes neglect our own so it was a welcomed initiative and I think the last time a party was held I think was some ten, maybe fifteen years ago so it is great that it was bought back and certainly signals a step in the right direction. I think the minister has set the bar high for himself and we are anticipating a continuation of that but I do note that in one of this initial interviews he said that welfare is a paramount concern for him and I believe as small as it is we are grateful and it is an indication of that.”

Police officers across the country have welcomed the move, describing it as a meaningful and timely show of support during the festive season, one that many hope will become a tradition going forward.