NCOA MAgazine / PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT THE PUBLIC. NCOA Member Awarded George Medal. Members Section. News In Brief

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1 Issue 7 / July 2017 NCOA MAgazine / PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT THE PUBLIC NCOA Member Awarded George Medal News In Brief Members Section

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3 AbOUt UNDER COVER MagaziNE: Editor Simon Bashford PublishED by: NCOA 1 Dundonald Avenue Stockton Heath Warrington, WA4 6JT Tel: membership@ncoa.org.uk PRODUCED by: United Awareness Publishing Refuge House Watergate Row Chester, CH1 2LE Tel: Under Cover is the official magazine of The National Crime Officers Association (NCOA) a bespoke Trade Union formed to focus on the needs of its members of the National Crime Agency (NCA). The views expressed in this magazine are those of officers, commitee members or representatives unless otherwise stated. Contributions may be sent in confidence to the Editor who reserves the right to amend or edit all material as necessary; where possible, with the consent of the contributer to: Under Cover Magazine, 1 Dundonald Avenue, Stockton Heath, Warrington, WA4 6JT EditORs LettER CONtENts open this edition of Under Cover with mixed I emotions of pride, sadness and a degree of uncertainty as to the future for our members within the law enforcement community. The tragic events that we watched unfold on television from Manchester and London over the past few months, and which saw NCOA members deployed, reminds us all of the uncertain era in public protection that we have now entered. Under Cover pays tribute to both the victims and public servants in our News section. A general election, that delivered more uncertainty the day after than the day before, saw verbal promises of more officers and money to the police and security services, traded between political heavy weights like a pay per view boxing match, in attempt to get the moral high ground on safety of the UK. Perhaps all sides of the Government House should read the heroic story that is Martin Finney and just how close so many of our members are daily, to a life changing incident. When this article was received at Under Cover, I could only read in equal amounts of shock and admiration for the brave actions of Martin when faced with an armed gunman intent on harming him. We receive many great comments from readers and the NCA however, on the rare occasion we were challenged on the fairness of our reporting on an AGM motion, we were happy to offer a right to reply. So it is that the PSD take their opportunity to respond to member concerns of their department. Enjoy the read, please feel free to contribute to your bespoke magazine. If you wish to contact us on this or any other issue, please write to membership@ncoa.org.uk Simon Bashford President News in Brief Know Your Workplace? Focus On: Nina Cope Under Cover Magazine would like to thank everyone involved in producing this magazine, especially advertisers and those kind enough to make a contribution. Right of Reply... PSD Members Section It s Not Every Day you get a George Medal! Does the Common-Law Next-of-Kin exist? New State-of-the-Art Treatment Centre Opening this Summer PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT THE PUBLIC / UNDER COVER / Issue 7 / July 2017 // 1

4 News in brief With grateful ThANks TV news often portrays a world which is very difficult to relate to given locations and events being reported on across the globe. However, since the last edition that has all changed with incident after horrific incident, occurring on our streets involving friends, relatives and law enforcement colleagues who were all simply going about their daily routine as they became caught up in unthinkable events. The attack at the Houses of Parliament barely 400 metres from our own Westminster offices, highlights how any of us could so easily be caught up in a terror attack even simply walking to and from an underground station in the middle of the day. This was proven in the events at the Ariana Grande concert which saw the death of DC Elaine McIver who some of you may have known, through closer working with the Regional Organised Crime Unit. Our thoughts go out to all the victims, families and friends of those killed or injured in these recent attacks. Under Cover would also like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the men and women of the uniformed emergency services who are called in to deal with the aftermath and carnage caused by acts of terrorism. Notwithstanding the support provided by the NCA, to help our law enforcement colleagues as they investigate these atrocious acts, it is important that whether on or off duty, we all remain vigilant and report anything suspicious. In and around the workplace don t be embarrassed to challenge anyone you don t recognise or who is not carrying identification. LONg service RewARDED Congratulations to the 484 NCOA officers who have received their Long Service and Good Conduct medals (see also Members Section story). The medal is awarded as a mark of the Sovereign s appreciation of the long and meritorious service by members of law enforcement. Under Cover is immensely proud of you all. Well done! On COURse for success In January, a further 15 NCOA reps attended our newly designed training course. The bespoke training covering Industrial Relations, Misconduct Matters and Member Representation, allowed attendees to experience for themselves, the reality of representation as they took part in mock discipline panels designed by our own trainers. The NCOA now has a network of over 60 reps across the NCA estate. Do you think you have what it takes to become an NCOA volunteer? Challenging at times, but always rewarding knowing that you were there to help a colleague facing difficult issues. The next course is scheduled for 14th - 17th November and any workplace rep who has yet to receive their training is encouraged to call Andy Myers on to book their place. 2 // UNDER COVER / Issue 7 / July 2017 PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT THE PUBLIC /

5 News in brief SensibLE APPROACh to CEOP Shifts The previously reported issue regarding implementation of a trial shift system for CEOP to cover hrs and to roster officers on-call for Sat/Sun one week in five, has produced some pleasing member results. It was the issue of our US counterparts who are a significant partner in CSE investigations, but who work in a different time zone, that was causing the drive to extend core hours. NCOA has never opposed implementation of shifts where the necessity exists to provide such extensive cover, and it was this that saw the NCOA and the CEOP management agree a trial period to evaluate precisely where cover fell short of efficiency. At the end of a three month review it became apparent that the extent of the shift system implemented was not justified and CEOP management sensibly sought to reduce the impact on staff by reducing coverage to daily. Weekend on-call was also reviewed and it was decided not to continue, but to revert back to seeking availability from staff on an informal basis. Well done to all involved for a sensible outcome. So ExACtly WhERE DO I PARk? The ongoing issue of parking at the NWH that has been reported consistently for four years, has never been more evident than it is today. Following the occupation of Olympic Park s two other buildings in early May 2017, car parking at the North West Hub has dramatically worsened. Only 292 bays are available for 600 officers to park their personal vehicles in. Our members are now forced to park off site, where some have been subjected to threats of intimidation, criminal offences and even assault! NCOA promptly challenged the agency with local site management at a Corporate Services Programme Board which has led to the appointment of a dedicated project manager. In May, NCOA hosted a members/ open forum meeting to evaluate all of your opinions and suggestions that formed the focus of our work. We continued to challenge the agency, progressing the potential solutions that you have raised that eventually led the agency to recognise the risk and the need for real change. It is clear that the intolerable position that NWH commuters are forced to endure, has created real anxiety and stress to some members and genuinely risks reputational damage to the organisation in Warrington. We ask that you remain vigilant and ensure incidents are reported as required. SomebODy NOtiCED.. The NCA has an extremely committed workforce who often deliver beyond the high expectations of the Agency. It doesn t matter whether you work in Spring Gardens or Kathmandu (have we got an office there yet?), from the officer that carries a gun to the team that is ensuring the kit is where it should be and the intelligence is top notch, all the way through to payroll making sure we get paid - everyone has a part to play in 'Team NCA'. We are therefore delighted to report that excellent work clearly does get noticed, and we send our warmest congratulations to the following NCOA members who saw National recognition in the recent Queens Birthday Honours list; BEM - Gavin Lambert MBE s - Stuart Copley, Eamon Fanning and Danny Murphy. PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT THE PUBLIC / UNDER COVER / Issue 7 / July 2017 // 3

6 News in brief RECOgnise your workplace REP There is still time to tell us the name of your nomination for NCOA Rep recognition. Last year saw four workplace reps receive awards (three certificates and one bespoke blue glass plaque) in appreciation of their work on members behalf. The issue can be personal representation or taking up an issue on behalf of your branch, all will be considered on their merits. E mail: membership@ncoa.org.uk with a short precis of why you think your local NCOA rep deserves our appreciation. The named recipients will be awarded their plaque, by the Chair at the AGM in September. StEPhENsONs ROCket NCOA are very pleased to announce that they have uniquely teamed up with Stephensons solicitors in our ever improving services to members. Stephensons is an award-winning top 150 law firm, with over 470 staff based in seven offices across the country, and certainly a feather in the NCOA cap to have them on board with us! Our new partners are a sustainable and ethical multi-service firm providing legal services to members including Personal Injury claims, Clinical Negligence, Family Law & Divorce, Insolvency and Inheritance advice representation. This is in addition to the ever popular, and very well used Free NCOA Legal Helpline, Home Emergency Assistance, Motor Breakdown and Criminal representation to all NCOA members. A LittLE BiRD told Me... Those keen twitterers amongst you will no doubt be some of the many followers of the NEC twitter pages. To keep up to date on what is happening in your union as it happens and to see who NCOA is retweeting... join the growing numbers and follow us NEC ON the ROAD Your NEC is keen that wherever they travel, you have the opportunity to come and talk to your union face to face. Dates for your diary are: Spring Gardens 13th/14th September The membership office is often inundated with calls and s, particularly following any fresh announcement affecting members so, give Lucy in the office a rest, and come and speak with us personally. AGM Warrington 26th/27th September Bristol 18th/19th October Exeter 13th/14th December 4 // UNDER COVER / Issue 7 / July 2017 PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT THE PUBLIC /

7 News in brief Psst!!! Did someone MENtiON Pay RefORM? Some of you may be surprised to hear, that up until the publication of this edition, the NCOA have had nothing other than informal conversations on long awaited Pay Reform. Since early 2017, NCOA have been party to a number of meetings which were originally chaired by the outgoing DDHR and are now delivered by a G1, Head of Pay and Reward who joined the Agency at Christmas It would be fair to say that the document presented to NCOA at the tail end of 2016 bears little resemblance to the July 2017 document, which at the time of going to press we are still actually not fully sighted...we have asked! However, as the document morphed under what is believed was heavy influence and direction from central government, (Home office, Cabinet Office or Treasury), it became clear that widespread bottom to top grade Pay reform was not getting the thumbs up from the centre. In turn, as alluded to in a July DG blog, there is now likely to be a focus on specialist groups within the Agency. Putting it bluntly this will see less staff benefit from pay reform which is itself, less than satisfactory. The NCOA have made it absolutely clear that they have a mandate to represent all of their members to ensure that any new pay proposals befit a 21st Century, world leader in Law Enforcement... for anyone in doubt, this means from G6 up, and for those with powers as well as those without! NCOA recognises that lack of communication has been a problem for members but as you would imagine, we have made repeated requests for NCA to provide clear and regular communication however, the agency imposed on all sides, a communications embargo effectively preventing the flow of information to those affected. Any attempt to break that embargo could exclude any party from the eventual negotiating table that follows endorsement of Treasury, Home Office and the NCARRB. NCOA cannot afford to be excluded at that point and have reluctantly respected the embargo enabling us to engage on members behalf, when it really matters! It is also important to understand fully, that it is the National Crime Agency which is developing proposals for reform, which require approval at several levels before they can even be presented to the Pay Review body in early October. The NCOA has formally asked to be involved in the development period and to engage directly with the Home Office, a request that has been rejected at central government. If the NCA seeks a Collective Agreement to introduce Pay reform it will mean that only the recognised Trade Unions have the power to support or reject on behalf of members. We are committed to close engagement with each and every one of you so that you decide whether or not Pay Reform in its finalised position, is what the majority want to see implemented in March If you are a member please monitor your s for updates and prepare for member meetings which will roll out as the final offer becomes clear to us. If you are reading this and are not yet a member, please join us and add your vote to the Pay reform ballot we will be holding in the months to come. MANAge your health & safety NCOA Health and Safety Officer Faye Lowe, continues to remind us of the importance of health and safety in the workplace. Faye says Health and safety does not just cover trip hazards - it is far more in depth and complex, and impacts on every part of our working lives. Health and safety covers stress, long hours, increase in work, decrease in resources, lack of support from managers, bullying, body armour, PPE, dynamic risk assessments, CSEA work the list goes on. It is the responsibility of all NCOA reps to have an awareness of health and safety within the workplace. Almost every NCA building will have an NCOA rep who can work with the NCA Health and Safety Adviser. It is also important to note that Health and Safety Legislation has a very strong legal framework and is not something that should be ignored so, if you have any other queries, please do not hesitate to contact your nearest NCOA rep or Faye (her number is listed on the reps page of this issue). PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT THE PUBLIC / UNDER COVER / Issue 7 / July 2017 // 5

8 Know Your workplace? What do NCOA members really know about the office they work each day? Under Cover discovers some interesting but often useless nuggets about your Branch. This edition. Warrington, site of nwh The Ritz cinema opened in Warrington. It was re-named ABC in 1958, partially converted into a Bingo hall in 1972 and closed in The building was re-opened in 1986 as Mr. Smith's nightclub, venue for the iconic 'Hitman and Her', presented by Michaela Strachan and Pete Waterman... It burned down in April 2015! In World War II, Burtonwood RAF base at Warrington was the largest airfield for the US Air Force outside of its own country. Humphrey Bogart and Bob Hope were among the stars who visited Burtonwood Airfield to entertain the servicemen! Lovers of flat-pack furniture and Swedish meatballs should be aware of Warrington s significance. Scandinavian home accessories giant Ikea first set foot in Britain with its Warrington store, built in now where s that Allen key? The main sport associated with Warrington is Rugby League. The famous Warrington Wolves, who are staunchly supported by NCOA partners at Philip Williams & Co, is the only club to have played in every season of the sport s top division... until 2017 that is! Warrington is steeped not only in literary history, but in real events that shaped Britain as we know it today. During the English Civil War, military leader Oliver Cromwell s army would stay in the area, and Cromwell himself is said to have made Church Street his lodging spot. 6 // // UNDER COVER // Issue 7 // July 2017 PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT THE PUBLIC //

9 Warrington folk will proudly consider Alice s Adventures in Wonderland author Lewis Carroll to be one of their own. He was born in nearby Daresbury, which probably explains his inspiration for characters like the Cheshire Cat. One of the earliest performances of Shakespeare s play Henry VIII may have occurred in Warrington! On Sunday 6th May 1632, nine men persuaded a Warrington ale house keeper called Gregory Harrison to let them use his loft after purchasing a cann of alle (a large churn containing many pints!). As the play was being performed during the hours of divine service, the men were arrested by the town s constables and churchwardens. They subsequently admitted performing a play called enery the eighthhhh hic!, and were duly prosecuted. In 1830 Warrington was residence of the first ever Total Abstinence Society that spread throughout England. The first town newspaper was The Warrington Adviser in long since gone, today the Warrington Guardian or the South Warrington News grace the stands! In 1321, Warrington became the first paved town in Lancashire Famous Warrington born, living celebrities include: Warren Brown (Kickboxer/ actor) famed for Hollyoaks and DS Ripley in Luther A shadowy figure known as the mad dentist who was married to Ruth Ellis the last woman to be hanged in Britain lived and worked in Warrington 50 years ago. Hundreds of local children may have had their teeth treated by George Ellis when he worked as a school dentist in the town in the 1950s. On the face of things he was a dentist with a taste for the high life, who drank too much and frequented clubs and enjoyed the company of their hostesses however, a new book published to mark the 50th anniversary of Ruth Ellis execution, claims he may also been involved in espionage as a British spy! Jesse Lingard (Manchester United and England footballer) Chris Evans (Radio 2 Breakfast show and Ferrari fanatic!) Kerry Katona (Atomic Kitten and TV presenter) Martin Roberts (Homes Under the Hammer & I m a Celebrity Get Me out of Here!) Ian Brown (Stone Roses) PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT THE PUBLIC / UNDER COVER / Issue 7 / July 2017 // 7

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11 Focus On: NiNA COPE Nina is the recently appointed Deputy Director (Capabilities). Here she tells Under Cover about her career and aspirations for the NCA. Under Cover: Nina, you have been in the Agency several months now. Where have you worked previously? Nina: I joined the NCA at the beginning of April and since I started time has flown by! I arrived at the NCA from the High Speed Two rail project where I was Organisational Change and Effectiveness Director. Previous to that I have worked in law enforcement, local government and education. Under Cover: Tell us about the law enforcement side of your career? Nina: During my time at the Met, I was responsible for a major service improvement and cost reduction programme, as well as roles in strategy and intelligence. I am excited to join the NCA, returning to a mission very close to my heart protecting the public, after working in a different industry, on broadly similar challenges faced by our own organisation. Under Cover: Previously the Agency has had just one DDG. Tell us about this role specifically? Nina: The post of Deputy Director General (Capabilities) is a new role focusing on developing the capabilities for our [NCA] operations, enabling us to operate at the high end of high risk, enhance the intelligence picture of serious and organised crime and advance our specialist capabilities both for ourselves and partners. The role concentrates on the enabling functions that are essential to our vision and operational success: - Finance, HR, Commercial, Estates, Technology and Information and our Transformation work. Under Cover: Having now met some of the NCA staff, what are your thoughts, impressions and priorities? Nina: I have been trying to get out of London as much as possible and have been delighted to meet so many of you officers who are energetic, dedicated and passionate in their commitment to taking the agency forward. My first task has been to really understand what the agency does and meeting our key external stakeholders to understand their expectations and views of the NCA, and working with my teams to develop our plan to move the agency forward from where we are. From this is I have developed my initial priorities - which I am sure will strike a chord with many of you. Transformation We need to be clear about what our change programme consists and what it delivers. Being sure we make the right changes and in the right way. It is important that we bring everyone on board with the new ways of working so that we all own it, are all part The role concentrates on the enabling functions that are essential to our vision and operational success... of making it happen and making it succeed. Pay - I can imagine how frustrated you [NCOA Union] must feel, and continuing to ensure the pay case progresses is a priority for both myself and my Chief People Officer. IT it is important that we manage our 'business as usual' technology requirements well and reduce our reliance on legacy systems. Technology requirements have to be integrated into all our transformation plans. Firming up our foundations so that we have a really solid base for the future and the unknowns we will need to keep adapting to everything from working with the new government to responding to what changes in the threat picture. Under Cover: Thanks Nina. Any final message to the agency staff? Nina: If I haven t met you yet I hope to soon, as I continue to visit different areas of the agency. But in the meantime, if you have any thoughts, suggestions or ideas you would like to share with me, please do get in touch either by , or contribute your thoughts to my blog. PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT THE PUBLIC / UNDER COVER / Issue 7 / July 2017 // 9

12 Right of REPLy... PSD Following Under Cover Issue 6, (Policy v Behaviour page 8) a senior PSD officer contacted the Editor to offer the following response: Under Cover is happy to print PSD Right to Reply: The Professional Standards Department understands and acknowledges members concerns. Bullying and unfair treatment in the workplace is unacceptable and must be challenged at the earliest possible stage. We are working hard with HR and the anti-bullying advisors network to encourage early intervention and prevent issues in the workplace escalating. Where necessary the PSD/ ACU will formally investigate these matter as quickly as possible. The new Misconduct policy and Operating Procedure has been finalised and is awaiting sign off; it encourages early intervention and allows for earlier resolution through local management action. We have increased the number of trained Panel Chairs; this will improve the throughput of cases, enhance the consistency of approach and reduce the time investigations take to reach their conclusion. We have debriefed officers who have been involved in panels to learn lessons and improve our response. Both the Raising a Concern and the Whistleblowing policies are awaiting publication. If you wish to raise a concern you can do so anonymously through our confidential reporting systems in place (tel ). We are working hard with HR and the anti-bullying advisors network to encourage early intervention and prevent issues in the workplace escalating. 10 // UNDER COVER / Issue 7 / July 2017 PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT THE PUBLIC /

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15 MEMbERs section From brittany to BiRChwOOD to brexit! NCOA member Regis Sardais tells Under Cover about the benefits of a journey to work... across the English Channel! In June 1996, NCOA member Regis Sardais swapped the fresh countryside of Brittany in France for the thriving atmosphere of city life in London. After spending a period of time working in London, Regis began his career in the Civil Service, working in the Compliance Department of HMRC in Preston. It was in February 2014 that he found a vacancy to become an officer of the NCA, enabling him to apply his international outlook and linguistic skills to the UK International Crime Bureau (UKICB) in Birchwood. Regis says: I d seen that the Agency had vacancies nearby in Birchwood and applied to become part of the SIRENE bureau project, the UK entry to the Schengen Information System. I didn t really know what to expect entering the Agency. I would say I was quite nervous really as I d had no previous law enforcement experience, and my HMRC background was only relative to a minority of the NCA s activities. Luckily for Regis, the Agency offered in-depth systems training. Extensive mentoring was also provided by colleagues within the UKICB in order to strengthen and develop his knowledge of the Agency and law enforcement and also to facilitate his adaptation into the job. Regis continued: Whilst I ve been in the Agency, I ve had some great experiences so far. I was initially given full training on all of Above: Regis picture above 5th from right, with Interpol colleagues. the systems we operate and I ve I ve got to say I m not really that subsequently been able to gain preoccupied by Brexit despite my Partial Powers and Intel skills which roots. Since the vote, I ve actually really help me in my role. Being even managed to gain a promotion bi-lingual I ve also been able to give from Grade 6 to Grade 5 and the plenty back to the Agency. planning within our bureau and the Agency means that we will be well.. I regularly help colleagues by prepared. calling our international partners in French and also help to proofread As I ve now lived here for almost 21 documents translated from English years, have children who were born to French by my colleagues on the in the UK and live happily with my translation team. British wife in Penwortham (Preston), I m really settled here and have no I was even lucky enough to be able intention of moving. to attend a course at the INTERPOL headquarters in Lyon to further Regis says he could not contemplate my development recently and moving overseas as I d never be found this really beneficial to meet able to return to my second home international colleagues (pictured Old Trafford and watch the best team fifth from right). in Manchester!... Controversial! Working within the UKICB based in Under Cover thanks to Donald Warrington, which deals with large Goodjohn for his help with this volumes of international enquiries article. from UK LEA through INTERPOL, SIRENE & EUROPOL channels, Have you also joined the NCA from an one might have thought that the unfamiliar path? Tell us your story outcome of Brexit might have been and we will tell others! a cause for concern for the future; this is simply not the case for Regis. PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT THE PUBLIC / UNDER COVER / Issue 7 / July 2017 // 13

16 MEMbERs section ALL home for tea & MEDALs NCOA Chair Steve Bond reports on his pride in the Long Service and Good Conduct medal and in particular, one special recipient... Under Cover readers who follow the NCOA at will know that we have been placing messages about the NCA Long Service and Good Conduct medal ceremonies, as well as sharing information amongst the wider law enforcement community who take an interest in the NCA. As a recent recipient myself, I decided to do some research about other NCOA beneficiaries. It is with great pride I can report that to date, 484 NCOA Members have received this recognition of their service. For some, this might be indicative of the age of our membership, but for me it shouts commitment of those officers to public service. As I scoured through the names, I was amazed how many I recognised. There were representatives from almost all departments and with recognition of 20 years service all pre-cursor agencies were evident. I know that many NCOA officers have attended the ceremonies and that others chose to receive them from Senior Officers. For NCOA member Chris Smith (photo), neither was suitable... On the 29th September 2016, during a meeting at the North-West Hub, Chris suffered a stroke. It was the quick thinking of his NCA colleagues who recognised the symptoms and called an ambulance that ensured that Chris was rushed to Liverpool Hospital, where a successful operation removed the blood clot on Chris s brain. It was apparent from an early stage that Chris would be unlikely to return to work prior to his planned Above: Chris receives his medal from the DG at home. retirement on the 15th February unknown. I think it reflects a lot of The NCOA supported Chris during what all of us in receipt of the LSGC this period and as a member of the medal feel: my illness is not how I NCOA Insurance Benefits Trust, wanted to end my career but since he also received financial support, falling ill I have been able to reflect which is so important, but often upon my service in both the police overlooked. and with the NCA. I am very proud of my service and whilst I may not have On the 16th March 2017, DG achieved everything I certainly did Lynne Owens visited Chris at his my best. I am extremely proud of the home to personally thank him for NCA and what it is trying to achieve. a long and distinguished career in I do not know what my future Nottinghamshire Constabulary, SOCA holds at present but if I ever have and latterly, NCA and to present Chris grandchildren I know that I will have with his NCA Long Service and Good immense pride in the organisation Conduct Medal. and that I was part of something (from the start) that set out to make Chris is recovering steadily, he plans to people s lives so much better and was drive again soon and return to work. a force for good There remain challenges, not least that Chris has been diagnosed with a hole I would like to thank Lynne for visiting in his heart that will require treatment. Chris and all those in the organisation Despite this, Chris though remains who made it happen when the NCOA positive throughout. first suggested that Chris should receive his medal. Chris Smith was Chris has kindly allowed me to share also supported by Gavin Lambert and the message he wrote to me back his organisation Different Strokes in November 2016, when I and the (those of you who read Issue 3 of NCOA were supporting him and when Under Cover will know the immense his long-term prognosis was still work done by Gavin and his team. 14 // UNDER COVER / Issue 7 / July 2017 PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT THE PUBLIC /

17 MEMbERs section Top gear No fear! Whilst not physical, NCOA associate Dave Talbot took on a challenge, in aid of Cancer Research UK that would see him drive straight into the record books! On 18th June, Dave, teamed up with three colleagues and, with the aid of two loaned Tesla Model S electric cars, Dave and his co-driver Alan, attempted the 840 mile John O Groats to Lands End in a single day in daylight hours, whilst his two friends repeated the journey northbound in the opposite direction. Dave told Under Cover whilst fairly easily achievable in a fossil fuelled car, an electric car is more of a challenge. At best the range is 250 miles on a full charge, so we will have to manage our speed and the amount of charge we put in the car in order to achieve our goal... too much speed, or too little charge, would see Dave not reaching a charger and fail the challenge. The Southbound trip started at dawn 03:30 to dusk at allowing 18 hours 35 mins to complete the journey and giving the team just 3 hours 47 mins of charging. The northbound trip started approximately 1 hour later to allow time difference. Dave said to our knowledge this hadn't been tried before by even a single car, let alone two teams of two Following some slight diversions and Sat Nav misdirection, Dave completed 874 miles in 18 hours 40 mins with just 178 minutes of battery charging mins inside the world record! Dave and his team were supported by NCOA and raised 4,190 for the Cancer charity! Fast boys but no noise! Above: Dave and the Tesla that drove him into the record books. Keep On RUNNing For some (by which I mean the the Editor), Keep on Running was a 1966 all-time great No1 for the Spencer Davis Group featuring the legendary Steve Winwood. It should also be the club song for Under Cover regulars, the Belfast Fit Bits. Once again the team did the NCOA proud at the PSNI Newforge Blue Lights sports day [14th June]. Glen P was overall winner of the 5K in a time of 19m:15s Anne M was 2nd in female veteran 5K in a time of 23m:43s Another great result for NCA at the PSNI Blue Light event. Donna M was close behind Anne in 3rd with a time of 25m:01s Glen s son Chris [pictured far left] was 2nd in the 10K open under 35 s in a very impressive 37m:31s. This was a really well organised night with a friendly atmosphere and lovely food afterwards, so all together Keep on running... PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT THE PUBLIC / UNDER COVER / Issue 7 / July 2017 // 15

18 It s Not Every DAY you get a george MEDAL! Under Cover salutes our very own hero - Martin Finney. Back in 1981, the commanding officer inspecting the latest line of raw Royal Engineer recruits had no reason to suspect that amongst them was a proud young 17 year old, who would go on to set himself apart from his peers with a heroic act of bravery. Private Martin Finney like so many other Sappers before him, started his military career at Gibraltar Barracks in Farnborough. Having completed training, he was posted to Germany to serve as part of the British Army on the Rhine with the 28 Amphibious Engineer Regiment. After just two years it was clear that Martin sought additional challenges and having successfully completed Parachute training at Aldershot, went on to serve the rest of his military career as part of the elite 5th Airborne Brigade. As a Pathfinder and patrol commander, he was deployed in various locations over the course of a distinguished 15 year career. The most challenging of these was as part of the UN peacekeeping force sent to Rwanda, in response to the genocide and mass slaughter of 800,000 members of the Tutsi tribe. In 1996 Martin swapped his military beret for a custodian helmet and joined the ranks of Hampshire Police. Once again he sought additional challenges and pursued a career within proactive policing. What followed was a natural route for many specialist Police officers as Above Left: Martin's George Medal. Above Right Martin Finney demonstrating High Altitude Low Opening (HALO) jumping. Martin found himself seconded onto the National Crime Squad where he qualified as an armed rural officer. His career saw him then transfer to the Serious Organised Crime Agency in 2006 followed by a further badge change when the NCA came in to being in With a career like Martin s, it is clear that he has no qualms in facing danger head on. Surprisingly though, his most significant act of courage and bravery was not whilst wearing an elite maroon beret or Police helmet, it was whilst carrying an NCA warrant card on Operation Accountant. Like many of his Armed Operations Unit (AOU) colleagues, Martin had deployed on Operation Accountant on numerous occasions and over several months. There was undoubted risk attached to these deployments, but nothing could prepare him for the events which unfolded on the evening of the 23rd May 2014 on a busy street in Tottenham, North London. After a very long day of unremarkable events Martin and the team were given the order to stand down and return to their vehicles, their work was done... for now at least. As the team started to relax and prepare for the trek back to base, Martin began to walk back to his 16 // UNDER COVER / Issue 7 / July 2017 PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT THE PUBLIC /

19 vehicle alone, thinking about the weekend ahead. As he approached an address linked to the Operation, he was taken aback to see Sedat Meric, rapidly fire 4 shots from a handgun into the entrance of the crowded Narin Buffet and Pool Bar. Martin s response was immediate, reflecting years of training and without any regard to his own safety despite being alone and without body armour. Running towards the danger, Martin identified himself, drew his weapon and challenged Meric whose own response was to turn on Martin and fire directly at him... Martin was barely 25ft away! Martin took cover behind parked vehicles as Meric ran into a residential area whilst firing 7 shots at our officer. Despite this lethal personal threat, Martin returned fire and pursued Meric into the dark back streets nearby. Meric fired so many shots that he ran out of bullets before finally surrendering his weapon and being detained by Martin until backup arrived. The detailed investigation after these events made sobering reading. Expert evidence revealed one of the shots fired by Meric had missed him by a matter of inches. Several parked cars bore the bullet holes meant for Martin. When asked about the incident it is clear that Martin would do precisely the same thing again if he had to; I wasn t going to cower behind a car. I wanted to arrest him. I just tried to make myself as small as possible and get a good shot back. He went around the corner and I moved for cover. I could see his eyes looking at me and the gun coming up. At the back of my mind I didn t know if he had already killed someone. His firing was totally indiscriminate, he had no regard for life. I was terrified somebody might have been hit Above: Martin circled as Meric turns to fire at him from close range. Right: Meric s surrendered firearm. Amazingly that terror did not stop Martin pursuing an armed and dangerous criminal which saw Meric convicted and sentenced to a 15-year prison sentence for possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life. Everyone except Martin I suspect, recognises that his remarkable actions taken to protect the public were also at great personal risk. It was satisfying therefore that three years later Martin was awarded the George Medal for gallantry. In true Martin Finney fashion, his response to receiving this award shows the type of man who is proud to serve and proud to protect; I feel incredibly honoured to receive this award. To be associated with previous recipients of the George Medal is truly humbling. I have colleagues who have received awards, some posthumous, and to be honest I really don t feel worthy to be in the same bracket as them. Whilst Martin may shrug off his heroic actions on the night of the 23rd May 2014, at Meric s trial, Judge Michael Topolski was very clear:... It was miraculous no-one was injured in the pre-meditated attack and that [Martin Finney] displayed all that is most creditable of police officers in whom we trust to put their Martin Finney displayed all that is most creditable of police officers in whom we trust to put their own safety on the back seat for the protection of the public. own safety on the back seat for the protection of the public. He acted with courage and resolve literally in the face of live rounds being fired at him Under Cover could not have put it any better - we thank you for your service. PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT THE PUBLIC / UNDER COVER / Issue 7 / July 2017 // 17

20 Quiz Page CroSSword Across 1. Aim (7) 5. Squander (5) 8. Smallest (5) 9. Perfumed (7) 10. Humble dwelling (7) 11. Attempted (5) 12. Hit (6) 14. Instructed (6) 18. Small tree with white flowers and purple fruit (5) 20. French bean (7) 22. Section of book (7) 23. Calm (5) 24. Release (3,2) 25. Cradlesong (7) Down 1. Royal residences (7) 2. Respond (5) 3. Australian wilderness (7) 4. Less burdensome (6) 5. Cereal crop (5) 6. Surroundings (7) 7. Finished (5) 13. Glowing (7) 15. Can containing a spray (7) 16. Completely (7) 17. Of a choir (6) 18. Surpass (5) 19. Proportion (5) 21. Asian country (5) Sudoku Medium Hard Corssword Anwsers: 1. Purpose, 2. React, 3. Outback, 4. Easier, 5. Wheat, 6. Setting, 7. Ended, 8. Least, 9. Scented, 10. Cottage, 11. Tried, 12. Strike, 13. Radiant, 14. Taught, 15. Aerosol, 16. Totally, 17. Choral, 18. Elder, 19. Ratio, 20. Haricot, 21. China, 22. Chapter, 23. Still, 24.Letgo, 25.Lullaby 18 // // UNDER COVER / Issue 7 / July 2017 PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT THE PUBLIC /

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24 DOEs the COMMON-Law next-of-kin exist? In probate law there are no legally defined terms for common law spouse or next-of-kin, yet the belief is that an unmarried cohabiting partner is the next-of-kin and entitled to receive your estate on your death if you haven t written a will. By John Fawcett Specialist Wills Lawyer at Slater and Gordon That incorrect belief is even stronger when an unmarried couple have had children together. It s very important if you are living with an unmarried partner to consider the legal position of your estate on your death. The Intestacy Rules The Intestacy Rules are a rigid set of legal rules which dictate who inherits your estate if you die without a valid will. If you re unmarried your partner might receive no financial provision and everything you own could pass to your children, parents, brothers/ sisters or distant relatives leaving your unmarried partner forced into making a costly and time consuming inheritance claim against your estate. You can avoid your estate following the Intestacy Rules by writing a will and ensuring that you own any property together as joint owners (where relevant to your own personal circumstances remember one hat doesn t fit all!! Wills There is no easier way to provide for an unmarried partner than making a legally valid will. You can make provision for your partner and it will take effect overwriting the Intestacy Rules. However you must ensure that your will is valid because the legal rules are very strictly applied by the court so we would not recommend that you write your own will. Joint-owners or owners-in-common? If you own property with your unmarried partner as joint-owners (also called joint-tenants) then on your death it will pass automatically to them. The Intestacy Rules will not apply and the joint ownership takes priority over anything written in your will. If you own the property as tenantsin-common (or in your sole name for that matter) then your share of it passes either according to the provisions written in your will or, if you haven t got a will, under the Intestacy Rules.Your partner could find that they now own their home with a new co-owner when they were expecting to own it outright. Would you want that to happen to you if the tables were turned and you outlived your partner? This problem can be avoided by writing a will! Other issues Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA): Consider making LPAs to give one another legal access to and authority over your finances and personal care decisions in case you become unable to take financial or health decisions for yourself - whether through illness (e.g. stroke or Alzheimer s/dementia) or from an accident at home or at work. Declaration of Trust: If you have more than one property consider writing a Declaration of Trust: a legal agreement that is used to specify how a property is held between unmarried owners or used to transfer ownership from one name into your joint names. Cohabitation Agreement: Consider legal advice when writing a cohabitation agreement which can detail how property is dealt with both during your relationship and upon separation. The best way to ensure that you make provision for an unmarried partner is to: Consider the above points carefully and have frank discussions with your partner. Have your will professionally written by a specialist advisor. Consider entering into a cohabitation agreement. Seek expert legal advice. To write your will please call Slater and Gordon on Freephone and we ll be happy to help. PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT THE PUBLIC / UNDER COVER / Issue 7 / July 2017 // 23

25 New State-of-the-Art treatment CENtRE opening THIs SuMMEr NWPBF tells Under Cover why joining is so important. You may already have opted to become a member of the North West Police Benevolent Fund (NWPBF), which will be reflected by deductions in your payslip. Either way, please read on to see the exciting new changes taking place at Langho - changes which will see the NWPBF build on its already outstanding reputation as a provider of high quality therapeutic services to Police Officers and NCA staff. For a small monthly payment, you can take advantage of the many services offered by the charity, such as confidential counselling, physiotherapy services, hardship grants/loans and use of the lodges at Windermere and Carnforth. NWPBF would have to wait 12 months to reap the treatment benefits of North West Police Benevolent Fund membership, but if you join between now and September 1st of this year, you will be able to access treatment services following the first payment. At the price of about two pints of beer, this really is good value! St Michaels Lodge, in Langho, near Clitheroe, is currently under-going a multi-million pound refurbishment, which will offer increased services for members who find themselves in need of extra support. Available for use this summer, the new development will provide state-of-the-art, in-patient and outpatient treatment for physical and psychological problems, and includes a swimming pool, gym, spa / hot tub and hydrotherapy pool. The North West Police Benevolent Fund comprises the forces of Cumbria, Lancashire, Merseyside, Cheshire, GMP and NCOA. Historically, new members to the This development is an enormous investment for members, reflecting the pressures/challenges faced by our serving and retired colleagues in the modern world. For a very small monthly donation you will have access to the very best treatment and welfare services available to law enforcement. Further information about the new state-of-the-art development will appear in future NCOA briefings but we encourage you to visit www. nwpbf.org and see for yourself the outstanding facilities this charity provides to our members. For application forms to join the NWPBF, download application at For a small monthly payment, you can take advantage of the many services offered by the charity, such as confidential counselling, physiotherapy services, hardship grants/loans // UNDER COVER / Issue 7 / July 2017 PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT THE PUBLIC /

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