A WEST Yorkshire Police Federation chief has spoken of "deep-seated discontent and disillusionment" amongst the region's officers.

In a survey, 14 per cent of West Yorkshire Police respondents said they intended to resign from the service "within the next two years" or "as soon as they can".

And 68 per cent said they did not feel valued.

The findings form part of the just-published 2023 Police Federation of England and Wales pay and morale report.

Craig Nicholls, chair of West Yorkshire Police Federation, says a low response rate in the region – 657 officers, equating to 11 per cent – was also indicative of how they felt.

He said: "The low turnout starkly reflects the deep-seated discontent and disillusionment amongst officers.

"With only 11 per cent participation, it's evident morale within the force is at an all-time low.

"The overwhelming sentiment amongst West Yorkshire police officers is one of exhaustion and frustration. They feel undervalued, underpaid and overworked, with little hope for improvement.

"Despite the tireless efforts of the federation to advocate for change, the perception persists that the Government remains indifferent to their plight and working conditions.

"The alarming rate of officers expressing intentions to leave the force speaks volumes about the level of disillusionment that permeates within the ranks.

"Meaningful steps must be taken to restore trust, address concerns and ensure police officers are supported, valued and respected.

"A failure to address issues such as stagnant pay and eroding pensions only exacerbates the challenges faced by officers."

West Yorkshire's deputy mayor for policing and crime, Alison Lowe, told the Keighley News: "West Yorkshire Police is one of the best forces to work in across England and Wales, but the failure of successive Governments to invest in pay and conditions since 2010 has been a slap in the face for all forces.

"The cost-of-living crisis has hit all families hard, and policing is no different.

"I was delighted that policing received a seven per cent pay increase in 2023-24, but this was only after many years of below-inflation awards and no increases in pay for several years.

"Policing is one of the hardest public sector jobs out there and we need to value our officers and staff accordingly if we want to get a service that will support us when we need it most."

West Yorkshire Police was invited to comment, but hadn't responded at the time of writing.