Met Police Sparks Fury with £5,000 ‘Poaching’ Bonus
South East police forces have slammed the Metropolitan Police after it dangled a tempting £5,000 bonus to lure experienced officers away from other areas. The move is being branded a blatant “cash bribe” and an underhanded attempt to poach officers.
‘Unfair Battle’ Among Forces Over Cash Bonuses
The Met insists the £5,000 one-off payment is part of a wider benefits package, including London weighting, aimed at boosting recruitment. But critics say it’s causing chaos between forces.
“The government is forcing forces to compete against each other just to hit its Uplift targets,” said Hampshire Police Federation Chair Zoe Wakefield. “Transfers should be for personal reasons or career growth, not because of money. This isn’t a healthy way to build a police force.”
Low Pay Driving Officers Out
Wakefield slammed the current pay system, pointing out how a McDonald’s general manager earns more than a new police recruit. She warns the government must boost police salaries fast or face an exodus as officers jump ship to better pay and less stress in the private sector.
“Officers can earn up to £20,000 more outside policing with none of the risks and trauma. Fair pay would solve this recruitment nightmare.”
