National Week of Celebration of Police Staff: Inside Our Firearms Licensing Department

As part of the National Week of Celebration of Police Staff, we’re highlighting the essential work of our Firearms Licensing department who play a vital role in ensuring the lawful and legitimate possession of firearms, ammunition, and explosives by the public and registered firearms dealers.

Being a largely rural force – and covering roughly two thirds of the land mass of Wales – it’s no surprise that we have a comparatively high number of legally held firearms within our force area.

In fact, we currently have 17,171 firearms certificate holders living with the Dyfed-Powys area, making us highest total per head of population in the UK. And that’s more than enough people to keep our Firearms Licensing team well and truly on their toes!

So, what exactly do the team do?

Essentially, the team work to ensure that firearms, ammunitions, and explosives only end up in authorised hands. That means people who have a legitimate purpose for owning a firearm and have gone through a rigorous application and assessment process to be granted a license.

The team operates within strict guidelines, adhering to the Home Office Guide on Firearms Law, the Firearms Licensing Statutory Guidance, and the College of Policing’s Authorised Professional Practice, alongside the Firearms Act and its amendments. So, what we’re saying is, there are a lot of guidelines and laws around the licensing of firearms within the UK, and it’s this team that put in the hard yards to keep us safe and compliant.

Public safety is always our number one priority – not just for the firearms licensing team, but for everyone who wears and works under the Dyfed-Powys crest.

The team conduct rigorous checks on applicants’ backgrounds and health to ensure only suitable individuals are granted a license.

While incidents involving firearms and firearm holders remain rare within our force area, the team take any concerns seriously and act decisively to manage risks and uphold public safety. If you have any questions about firearm legislation, the application process, or concerns regarding a certificate holder, please contact us via our website.

Introducing Our Dedicated Team 👋

Our Firearms Licensing team is made up highly committed professionals who bring extensive experience and dedication to their roles. This National Week of Celebration of Police Staff, we’re proud to recognise the crucial role they play. Let’s meet some of the team…

Meet Firearms Licensing Support, Neil

Neil joined the Firearms Licensing team back in 2013, believing it was something he would be interested in. Twelve years on, Neil said he still finds the role “fulfilling and invigorating” and is proud to be part of a dedicated and conscientious team.

💬 Neil said: "I believe Firearms Licensing is one of the most crucial departments in the force due to the nature of what we authorise daily. My role involves ensuring that the individuals who choose to apply for a gun license are suitable and have good reason to hold a firearm based on their personal circumstances.

“The responsibility of granting a firearm license is immense, and the consequences of getting it wrong cannot be underestimated, but I’m proud to be part of a team that prioritises public safety in everything we do.

“I am fortunate to work with a fantastic team that are totally committed to maintaining peace and public safety for the people of Dyfed-Powys.”

 

Introducing Elfyn, one of our Firearms Enquiry Officers

With 30 years’ public service as a police officer, Elfyn transitioned into the Firearms Licensing department in 2016 after retiring from frontline service.

💬 Elfyn said:

"My role involves conducting face-to-face interviews and ensuring applicants meet strict suitability criteria. At times, it also involves making difficult decisions regarding the removal of firearms and certificates. I approach every situation with fairness and professionalism, ensuring public safety remains paramount."

Throughout his extensive career, Elfyn has built strong communication skills, allowing him to handle even the most challenging situations with composure.

"Unfortunately, there are times when we have to revoke certificates due to changes in a person's circumstances, such as criminal activity or domestic incidents. These decisions are never taken lightly but ensuring that firearms remain in the hands of responsible individuals is critical."

He continued: “I am passionate about my role and have enjoyed assisting my colleagues and working as a team where I’ve trained four other Firearms Enquiry Officers. I enjoy dealing with the public and always strive to treat everyone fairly and respectfully.”

 

Meet Firearms Licensing Caseworker, Olivia

Joining the department in 2023 after three years in ICT, Olivia has developed a deeper understanding of policing and the work carried our by our frontline officers.

💬 Olivia told us:

"As a caseworker, I assess risks, review applications, and conduct suitability checks to ensure responsible firearm ownership. I take pride in providing an efficient service while supporting my colleagues in maintaining public safety."

Olivia’s role involves meticulous attention to detail and collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure each application is thoroughly vetted. She says the main goal is to “prevent harm and eliminate risk at the earliest opportunity.” Olivia added that she is proud of her role as a caseworker and being to provide an efficient service for certificate holders and applicants.

A Commitment to Safety

The Firearms Licensing department remains committed to upholding the highest standards in firearms regulation. Our team takes pride in their work, ensuring that every application is thoroughly assessed, and every decision is made with public safety in mind. As we mark the National Week of Celebration of Police Staff, we acknowledge and appreciate the dedication of our Firearms Licensing team in keeping our communities safe.

If you need advice or assistance, don’t hesitate to get in touch via our website.