Purpose

The Police Staff Council (PSC) is a collective bargaining body that brings together employers and trade unions to manage and represent police staff in England and Wales, excluding the Metropolitan Police, City of London, Kent, Surrey, and Thames Valley forces, Established in 1996, the PSC negotiates national agreements on pay, terms, and conditions of service for approximately 75,500 police staff. Its work ensures consistent standards across member forces while allowing for local variations through collective agreements.
The PSC is composed of two sides:
• Employers’ Side: Includes the Association of Police Authorities, the Association of Chief Police Officers, and the Home Office, with secretariat support from the Local Government Employers.
• Trade Union Side: Comprises UNISON, Unite, and GMB, representing police staff interests
The Council operates under a constitution and handbook that outlines nationally agreed pay spines, terms, and conditions of service, which form the basis of police staff contracts.
Functions and Objectives
The PSC’s principal roles include:
• Negotiating national pay and conditions for police staff and PCSOs
• Promoting high-quality services through a motivated and well-trained workforce
• Ensuring health and safety, equal opportunities, and the removal of discrimination in the workplace
• Supporting stable industrial relations and providing mechanisms for dispute resolution at both national and local levels
• Encouraging training and development opportunities for staff
The Council also provides guidance for local machinery, enabling trade union representatives to discuss and resolve workplace issues collaboratively
Funding
Since 2016, the PSC has been funded by Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs), Police, Fire and Crime Commissioners (PFCCs), and Mayors. The annual cost is approximately £50,000, shared among member forces, and has remained unchanged since 2016. Non-member forces, such as Thames Valley, contribute partially in recognition of the PSC’s role in setting standards.

Decision

GMCA will pay the APCC £1,313.99 to cover GM’s subscription costs for financial year 2026/27 covering membership of the Police Staff Council.