Supt Nelson is the Police Superintendents’ Association (PSA) disability lead, representing the interests of the association’s disabled members.
He is also the president of the National Disabled Police Association and has received the honour for his contributions to policing.
“I am absolutely delighted for Simon and very proud of him,” said Chief Constable Jo Shiner. Receiving this prestigious award, especially during Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee, is a true reflection of his impact in his national role. His story is an inspiration for how to overcome some of life’s challenges and use that to be a force for good for others. I believe I speak for everyone when I say we are extremely proud of Simon’s accomplishments.”
Simon has dedicated his service to assisting disabled officers and staff in policing after being diagnosed with stomach cancer in 2004 and having a full stomach removed in 2006. Despite his own significant health issues, he continues to work as a firearms commander and public order commander in Sussex Police and has held some of the force’s most difficult operational roles.
“I am both astounded and thrilled to receive this honour, especially during Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee,” he said. I used to have little faith in the future, but it’s now even brighter and feels especially special now that I’m in my final year of policing.
I am incredibly grateful to those who have placed their trust in me and shown genuine interest and support for those in law enforcement with diverse abilities.” My heartfelt gratitude goes to my colleagues and friends in the Police Superintendents’ Association, who continue to be at the forefront of valuing difference.
Simon has used his position as president of the Disabled Police Association to support the police service on broader diversity, equality, and inclusion issues, representing his nationwide colleagues not only on physical health challenges but also on the broader sphere of neuro diversity.
He also volunteers and serves on the advisory board of Cancer Central UK, a charity that assists people affected by cancer in finding the support and information they require.
“I am absolutely delighted for Simon, who is such a deserving recipient of this prestigious award,” PSA President Paul Fotheringham said.
“Despite his own health issues, he has dedicated himself to policing, both as a serving senior officer and as a leader and ambassador for disabled colleagues.” His colleagues have incredible faith in him, with the number of PSA members identifying as disabled tripling since his appointment to his PSA role, assisting the PSA in better understanding its members and the wider workforce.
He has worked on critical national issues such as national fitness testing, performance regulations, capability dismissal, and disability discrimination, shaping how the police service approaches these critical issues in the future.
On behalf of everyone at the PSA, I’d like to thank him for everything he’s done to influence our workforce’s understanding of disability and support our colleagues.” I’d also like to congratulate every serving and retired member of the police family who has been recognised for their contributions to our Service.
