AS GENERAL SECRETARY of the Prison Officers Association, I am proud to send our warmest fraternal greetings and unwavering solidarity to everyone attending the Tolpuddle Martyrs’ festival.

Tolpuddle is far more than a festival. It is a living reminder of the sacrifices made by ordinary working people who dared to stand together and demand dignity.

When the six agricultural labourers from Dorset were transported for the simple act of organising, they could never have imagined that nearly two centuries later their names would still inspire trade unionists across Britain and beyond. Yet their courage continues to light the way for all of us.

The story of the Martyrs is the story of working people refusing to accept injustice. It is the story of solidarity overcoming fear, of collective strength defeating isolation, and of hope triumphing over oppression. Those values remain the foundation of our movement today.

As prison officer grades and operational support grades and those in the secure psychiatric hospitals and immigration centres, our members understand the importance of standing together.

They work in some of the most challenging environments imaginable, maintaining safety, order and decency in prisons and other areas of work that are too often overcrowded, understaffed and under immense pressure.

They face violence, trauma, daily uncertainty while continuing to serve the public with professionalism and courage.

The POA has always believed that those who perform such vital work deserve respect, safe working conditions and a genuine voice in the workplace. These are not unreasonable demands; they are basic principles of justice. They are the same principles that motivated the Martyrs to organise in 1834.

Today, the trade union movement faces new challenges. Inequality remains entrenched. Too many workers struggle with the cost of living while wealth becomes increasingly concentrated in the hands of a few.

Public services have been stretched to breaking point, and many workers feel unheard and undervalued. In the face of these challenges the lesson of Tolpuddle could not be clearer, when working people unite, we are stronger than when we stand alone.

The POA knows this better than most. Our members have faced decades of pressure and have seen fundamental rights restricted in ways that would be unacceptable in many other sectors.

Yet despite these obstacles, prison officers continue to organise, campaign, and support one another. We do so because solidarity is not a slogan, it is a necessity.

That is why the Tolpuddle festival matters. It brings together trade unionists, campaigners, families and communities from every walk of life. It reminds us that our movement is at its best when it is inclusive, compassionate, and determined. It provides an opportunity to celebrate our history while renewing our commitment to the struggles that lie ahead.

As someone raised with strong working-class values, I know the importance of looking out for one another. Many of us were taught that if a neighbour was in trouble, you help them. If a workmate was treated unfairly, you stood beside them. No-one should be left behind. Those simple values are the beating heart of trade unionism, and they are alive and well at Tolpuddle.

So, to everyone gathered at this historic festival, thank you for keeping the flame burning. Thank you for honouring those who came before us and for inspiring a new generation to believe in collective action. The Prison Officers Association stand shoulder to shoulder with you.

The Tolpuddle Martys showed the world that solidarity can never be transported, imprisoned or silenced. Their message echoes through every workplace where people organise for fairness and dignity. We must carry that message forward with confidence, unity, and determination.

In solidarity always.

Steve Gillan is general secretary of the Prison Officers Association.