Rachael Harrison is a former Contact Handler and now News and Public Affairs Officer at Staffordshire Police and has been exploring for Policing TV the people involved and the people touched by the annual UK Police Unity Tour cycle ride, which this year takes place from 1st to 3rd August.

Here she talks to retired Chief Inspector, Gill Marshall, who is National President of the Care of Police Survivors (COPS) charity. She talks about her personal connection with the charity and its mission to support the loved ones of those lost in service.

Gill also tells us how the tour has enabled the charity to fund the Unity House, a respite facility free for Survivors to use all year round. Located on the South-West coast of England, it was purchased using funds raised by the tour and provides a peaceful space for those who need it. 

If you would like to take part in this year’s UK Police Unity Tour you have until May 31 to register, which you can do here: https://ukpoliceunitytour.org/

To learn more about the work of COPS, visit: https://ukcops.org/

Takeaways

• COPS supports bereaved families of fallen police officers.
• Gill Marshall’s personal story highlights the impact of loss.
• Peer support is crucial for healing and connection.
• Unity House offers respite for families in need.
• The charity creates a safe space for sharing grief.
• Survivors Weekend helps families connect and share experiences.
• COPS is open to families regardless of when the loss occurred.
• The Unity Tour raises significant funds for COPS initiatives.
• Community connections provide hope and resilience.
• COPS fosters relationships among survivors and their families.

Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to COPS and Its Mission
05:07 – Gill’s Personal Connection to COPS
09:50 – The Importance of Peer Support
14:46 – Unity House: A Respite for Survivors
20:02 – Connecting with the COPS Community

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