Wellbeing: Police officers urged to not suffer in silence.

SUPPORT is out there for officers who are feeling the stresses and strains of the job – and they are being urged to not suffer in silence.

South Yorkshire Federation Chair Zuleika Payne says early intervention is key to ensuring the health and wellbeing of officers and is pleased that it’s being taken seriously by forces.

“Officers who may not be in a good place might not actually recognise it themselves, it could be their colleagues or peer group that notice the changes in somebody’s demeanour, behaviour and general character.

“Early intervention is key” she says

“We are in times now where we’ve seen a shift away from the stigma or fear of stigma that has been attached to health, wellbeing and mental ill-health issues.

“My plea to officers is please don’t underestimate the amount of support that is out there.”

The South Yorkshire force recently hosted a ‘Well Together’ Event, to highlight some of the issues that can affect officers. An event such as this is an important way to ensure the issues are not swept under the carpet.

“The event was very well attended. It was reassuring to see that the start of the day, the opening, was delivered by an Assistant Chief Constable here in South Yorkshire (ACC David Hartley).

“We’re mindful of the fact that health and wellbeing is something we need to keep developing and emphasising. Ultimately this is about the health of officers who are the most valuable asset in the organisation.

“For officers it’s about reminding them to speak out and to speak to somebody.”

New ‘Responding to Trauma in Policing’ guidelines from the College of Policing have been released and aim to help officers and police leaders tackle common mental health issues. Advice for PCs, specialist officers and those working in disaster response is offered in the report.

For more information visit; https://oscarkilo.org.uk/responding-trauma-policing-new-college-guidance/