This week Media House helped the Scottish Police Federation (SPF) launch ‘Relentless’ – a new film that exposes the reality of modern policing, showing the physical, mental and emotional toll officers endure to protect the public.
The film aims to rebuild public trust and shift the focus back to the vital and selfless work officers do, often at great personal risk.
“Our officers face trauma daily, risking their lives to protect the public. It’s crucial that the public understands this reality,” says General Secretary David Kennedy.
‘Relentless’ was screened to delegates at the SPF annual conference yesterday. Directed by filmmaker Sam Taylor, the film highlights the dedication of police officers who navigate between attending mental health crises, domestic disputes, drug-related deaths and violent altercations every day.
Kennedy stresses, “Officers deal with violence on a daily basis, and the mental and physical toll is immense. Batons and handcuffs provide some defence, but nothing prepares you for the split-second decisions needed in dangerous encounters.”
The film also sheds light on the emotional burdens officers carry.
“One of the most powerful scenes is of a young officer helping a bereaved child. There’s no training for that. It’s not just a job; it leaves a lasting impact. These are real people, with families, who are deeply affected by the traumas they witness,” says Kennedy.
“We need to start paying Police officers properly, addressing their pay and working conditions. They’re the people protecting us, 24/7, the people you call when the worst happens. They want you to come to them, when you need help. When you see a police car, you might think they are going to arrest somebody. No, they’re going to help somebody. We are part of the public and the public, a part of us.”
This hard-hitting film is a call to acknowledge and support those who serve to protect our communities.
Media coverage includes: Scottish Daily Mail, The Scotsman, The Scottish Sun, BBC One Reporting Scotland and BBC Scotcast.
Take a look here www.spfrelentless.com