WELCOME TO OUR POLICE FRIENDSHIP GROUP
'THE NIGHTWATCH'
Author is a former member of three separate Home Office police forces in the UK and a current member of the IPA.
(International Police Association)
Around 27 BC, Emperor Augustus added a policing function to the Vigiles to counterbalance the urban mobs that had run rampant during the final days of the Roman Republic.
In addition to fighting fires, the Vigiles served as the night watch of Rome. Patrolling the streets, they focused on maintaining the peace, apprehending thieves, and capturing runaway slaves. When sedition, riots, or violent crimes broke out, they were backed by specialist units like the Cohortes Urbanae and the Praetorian Guard—with the Vigiles providing critical ground support.
When you look closely, the core architecture of security has changed very little in over 2,000 years. This ancient system functions exactly like modern beat officers supported by elite, specialized tactical units. Today, we are that same Nightwatch—evolved from a dusk-to-dawn patrol into a seamless, 24/7 shield for our clients.
In addition to fighting fires, the Vigiles served as the night watch of Rome. Patrolling the streets, they focused on maintaining the peace, apprehending thieves, and capturing runaway slaves. When sedition, riots, or violent crimes broke out, they were backed by specialist units like the Cohortes Urbanae and the Praetorian Guard—with the Vigiles providing critical ground support.
When you look closely, the core architecture of security has changed very little in over 2,000 years. This ancient system functions exactly like modern beat officers supported by elite, specialized tactical units. Today, we are that same Nightwatch—evolved from a dusk-to-dawn patrol into a seamless, 24/7 shield for our clients.
Why a new Club?
Rather than a formal club, we are a trusted circle of like-minded professionals—bringing together serving police officers, veterans, and their families for mutual benefit.
Your privacy is paramount to us, which is why we do not collect home addresses; a verified email is all we need to communicate. To maintain the integrity of our group, we simply require proof of your current or past connection to a policing organisation. When submitting your final application, please include your or your spouse’s warrant number. If you are joining us as a widow or widower, you can find this reference number printed on your pension slip.
Your privacy is paramount to us, which is why we do not collect home addresses; a verified email is all we need to communicate. To maintain the integrity of our group, we simply require proof of your current or past connection to a policing organisation. When submitting your final application, please include your or your spouse’s warrant number. If you are joining us as a widow or widower, you can find this reference number printed on your pension slip.
Joining our community is straightforward. Membership is open exclusively to serving or retired police officers, as well as their immediate family members. If you are unsure what documents we accept as proof of service, please email us for clarification.
Membership is completely free. Simply reach out via our contact page below to get started.
Your Exclusive Member Benefits:
- Priority Booking: Secure your preferred dates ahead of the general public.
- 10% Discount: Receive a 10% saving on all bookings.
- Complimentary Welcome Package: Enjoy a curated selection of local goods upon arrival, including:
- A bottle of red wine and a bottle of white wine
- A carton of milk (your choice of skimmed or full-fat)
- A 2-litre bottle of still water
- A fresh loaf of local rustic bread
- A tub of local butter
Wider Scope
We offer true comradeship—a trusted space where you and your family can connect with serving and retired colleagues from around the world. Our network allows you to link up with fellow members, offering mutual support and local knowledge wherever you travel.
If your family is visiting Portugal—or if a younger family member is traveling solo—we can arrange airport meet-and-greets to ensure their arrival is completely smooth and secure. Should you or your loved ones encounter any difficulties while here, our team is available to assist 24/7.
For more information, please reach out via our contact page.
Please note: We operate independently and are not directly affiliated with the International Police Association (IPA) or any of its branches, though our founder is a proud member of the Kent Section (UK). Think of us as a global, virtual community built in the true spirit of the IPA—welcoming all police officers, staff, and families, regardless of official IPA membership.
If your family is visiting Portugal—or if a younger family member is traveling solo—we can arrange airport meet-and-greets to ensure their arrival is completely smooth and secure. Should you or your loved ones encounter any difficulties while here, our team is available to assist 24/7.
For more information, please reach out via our contact page.
Please note: We operate independently and are not directly affiliated with the International Police Association (IPA) or any of its branches, though our founder is a proud member of the Kent Section (UK). Think of us as a global, virtual community built in the true spirit of the IPA—welcoming all police officers, staff, and families, regardless of official IPA membership.
This group is formed in Friendship, and Peace, without heed to race colour or creed.
We are Hypatians.
Please use out Contact page to register your interest.
We are Hypatians.
Please use out Contact page to register your interest.
Below we have put the badges of police forces that have members with us.
Should you join and your force badge is not here, then we will add it.
Should you join and your force badge is not here, then we will add it.
Hover over the badge to identify the unit
