Covid-19: More than a dozen Hertfordshire Police officers test positive

More than a dozen Hertfordshire Police officers have tested positive for Covid-19 since the pandemic began, new figures show.

Figures obtained through a Freedom of Information request from Hertfordshire Constabulary show a total of 13 police officers have tested positive for the virus.

The force's records are up to October 26.

Those with positive tests were nine police constables, three sergeants and one inspector.

Chief Superintendent Matt Nicholls, from Hertfordshire Constabulary, who is leading the Force’s response to COVID-19, said: “We’ve worked hard to safeguard all of our staff, following national guidance on personal protective equipment (PPE) since the start of the pandemic to protect our frontline officers and the public.

“We regularly update all risk assessments covering police headquarters and our police stations and have thorough guidance in place to keep our offices COVID-secure, maintaining social distancing, using PPE and an enhanced cleaning regime, with many staff agile working from home.

“Where colleagues have reported any of the symptoms of coronavirus, we have systems in place to ensure they self-isolate and get tested quickly.

“We have maintained a good policing service in our communities throughout the pandemic and I am grateful for the ongoing commitment and hard work of all of our officers and police staff who make me proud to work for Hertfordshire Constabulary.

“Our workforce is our greatest asset and we make every effort to support everyone’s physical and emotional wellbeing, with wraparound support in place.”

The Police Federation says officers across the country are in “constant worry” when faced with offenders who may spit, bite and cough while being dealt with.

Nationally, at least 849 police officers have tested positive at the 26 forces in the UK which answered a Freedom of Information Act request.

In August, the National Police Chiefs’ Council and College of Policing issued new guidance to police forces on the use of personal protective equipment.

Advice was also given on social distancing and enhanced hygiene measures, but it was accepted that maintaining a two-metre distance was not always possible.

Chairman of the Police Federation John Apter said it was “inevitable” some officers would catch the virus given their nature of work.

But he added: “There is also the constant worry of bringing the virus home to their loved ones which is exacerbated when they deal with offenders who weaponise the virus by spitting, biting and coughing - which is disgusting and unacceptable.

“People need to realise that behind the uniform, officers are mothers, fathers, sons and daughters.”

Mr Apter urged the public “not to give up now” on combating the virus and to follow latest guidelines to reduce its spread.

The NPCC also urged the public to follow regulations.

Chairman Martin Hewitt said: “Whilst demand levels remain high we are well-prepared to respond to any crime or other issues that arise.”