Anger on the Streets And Why Police Are Caught in the Middle of It All

A petition has been launched to make swearing at a police officer an offence. Officers out on protests are often facing the backlash of an angry society.

As the local elections approach, one thing is for certain. People are disappointed and extremely apathetic when it comes to voting. There is a great deal of anger at the way our society is at the moment, and much of that anger is being directed at those on the frontline.

The cost of living crisis is impacting many. A pensioner was left with a declined card whilst trying to buy food at a Havering store, when fortunately a passerby stepped in to pay for him. This is Havering, once known for being a fairly affluent area. Not now.

Police officers are facing the full brunt of the anger people have on our streets at the moment. They see first hand how angry people are and ultimately many believe officers should acknowledge just why people are so angry. However, officers themselves are in a very difficult position.

They are husbands, wives, brothers and sisters and are doing the best that they can. They are ultimately in an extremely difficult position. Many agree with protesters and why they are there, but they are not there to have an opinion, they are there to enforce the law as difficult as it may be.

One officer numerous years ago was called to a protest where people were desperately, and rightly, trying to save an ancient old tree from being destroyed. They openly voiced their objections, but he was still told that he had to stand against protesters. That moment has stayed with him and shows just how difficult the role can be.

Swearing at police officers is not acceptable. Calling them c**ts is equally disgusting.

Most officers are called up for these protests on their rest days. They have left behind families who were celebrating, or children’s birthday parties, because they have to attend one of many endless protests. How many birthday parties have been missed. How many family occasions missed.

Yes, it is their job to stand there for exceedingly long hours in rain or sun, often facing shouting and sometimes violence. But they must also understand that the public are angry. People feel let down by what is happening around them and officers face the full brunt of that anger.

London has now become one huge protest zone, and police officers are caught in the middle, expected to hold the line while society vents its frustration.

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