Federation members are being encouraged to raise money for national policing charity Police Care UK by signing up to this year’s Blue Light Get Active Challenge.
Launching on Monday (18 January), the month-long fund-raiser will help boost mental and physical wellbeing with participants able to choose one of four emergency service charities to support – including Police Care.
“There’s no better time than now to get involved with a challenge like this,” said Glyn Pattinson, secretary of Staffordshire Police Federation.
“So dust off your trainers, dig out your walking boots or oil up your bike, anybody can get involved with this campaign.
“Free fund-raising places are limited, so I would advise all those wanting to take part to sign up as soon as possible."
This year, participants will be able to gain bonus points by taking part in mindfulness activities or by showing a ‘random act of kindness’.
“It will be great to see a bit of friendly competition between the forces, not just with each other but with our fellow emergency services too,” added Glyn.
“It’s all for a good cause, which will make putting those extra steps in worth it.”
Now more than ever Police Care UK needs your support, having seen an increase in demand over the past year.
Dave Blundell, engagement officer at Police Care UK, said: “The coronavirus pandemic has had a huge effect on everybody’s mental health, including that of many of our police colleagues who we support.”
Police Care UK is a national charity for serving and veteran police officers and staff, volunteers and their families who have suffered any physical or psychological harm as a result of policing.
It offers psychological support, financial assistance, specialist equipment grants, career transition advice, veterans’ peer support and educational bursaries.
The Blue Light Get Active Challenge will run from Monday (18 January) until Sunday 14 February and people can sign up any time before 13 February.
