A FOOD bank is being launched today for cops.
The City of London Police Federation branch will help officers who face exorbitant accommodation and travel costs despite a £1,900 national pay rise this year.
The branch tweeted: “Never thought I’d see the day we had to step in to make sure our members don’t sink.”
The City of London Corporation cut its police budgets by £5.4million this year leaving the force struggling to keep staff or pay overtime.
Former Flying Squad commander John O’Connor said: “It is a disgrace. The City fathers could increase budgets.’’
The national Police Federation said: “The people who put their lives on the line should not be in this position.”
The food bank in Bishopsgate is for officers and staff only.
A City of London Police spokesperson said: “We’re aware the City of London Police Federation is opening a foodbank and we understand our officers and staff, like many people, can be affected by financial strain.
‘’Recognising the impact of the cost of living on everyone, we’ve run sessions on financial wellbeing to help our staff manage their financial affairs and promoted discount and benefit schemes.
‘’The City of London Corporation provides the Employee Assistance Programme supported by Health Assured, which provides support for all staff and officers, including on legal, financial and practical issues.
‘’We are and will continue to do all we can to support all our officers and staff affected by financial challenges.”
The spokesperson added: ‘’In relation to officer numbers and in line with the national Police Uplift Programme, we are increasing the number of police officers in the City by more than 100 this year.”
A spokesperson for the City of London Police Authority Board said:
“The City of London Police’s net budget increased by over £7.5m in the last year. This included funding from a rise in Business Rates Premium.
“The force is fully funded, ensures that the City is one of the safest places in the country, and combats fraud on a national scale.
“Its officers are trusted by the communities that they serve and deliver policing with professionalism, integrity, and compassion.”
