Hampshire Police Federation Secretary set to become a Trustee of The Gurney Fund

THE Secretary of Hampshire Police Federation – Garry Smith – will become a Trustee of The Gurney Fund in May.

The Gurney Fund provides support for the children of police officers who have died or have been medically retired. It covers 22 subscribing forces, including Hampshire Police. The children receive an allowance and help with educational costs, including uniforms, driving lessons, books, musical instruments and school trips.

Garry attended his trustee’s induction course this week and said he wanted to make more people aware of the great work The Gurney Fund does.

He said: “In my Federation role, I’m used to applying to The Gurney Fund on behalf of our members. Usually that’s due to medical retirement; thankfully we haven’t lost many officers, although there are a few. The Fund provides great support for their families, which is fantastic.

“I wanted to become a Trustee as it was a good opportunity to give something back on our members’ behalf. It was the least I could do.”

Garry will attend quarterly meetings to help make financial decisions, make sure checks and balances are in place, and future-proof the Fund, so that its aims and objectives remain relevant.

This year The Gurney Fund is able to resume its annual summer children’s holiday, which Garry said was fantastic news.

He said: “The pandemic stopped the holidays The Gurney Fund does for the children, so it’s fantastic to have that back this summer. I’d like to be involved with that, if I can, because I know what value that brings to the children who go along.

“I’m also keen to get involved in the marketing of The Gurney Fund and make more people aware of the great work it does.”