Rise in "disrespect" towards cops as assaults increase

The leader of Greater Manchester Police Federation (GMPF) says there is “increasing disrespect” towards officers after almost 2,000 cops were assaulted last year.

Force data shows there were more than 45,000 assaults recorded on police across England and Wales in 2024, with GMPF Chair Mike Peake claiming respect for policing was in decline. 

“This shocking trend needs to be bucked, creating more support and better acknowledgement for the hard-working officers within GMP,” he wrote to Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham. 

“In order to tackle this alarming situation, much more needs to be done at both national and local government level. 

“For example, in instances that would not negatively impact on criminal prosecutions, a more proactive approach to release police body worn video footage to the public could improve public confidence in policing.” 

1,861 Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officers were assaulted in 2024, although those numbers were swollen by the riots that took place in the aftermath of the Southport murders. 

More than 1,000 GMP officers took sick days due to stress, anxiety or depression, while the force owed 52,730 rest days to police, a situation Mr Peake said is untenable: “The current pressures that modern day police officers face is clearly having a negative impact on retention, as people choose an alternative career with less risk. 

“Recruitment and retention are vital to the safety of our members when they deal with violent offenders and keep our communities safe. 

“Enough is enough, and I ask for the Mayor of Greater Manchester combined office’s support in raising our concerns at whatever platform and opportunity it can.”