Staffordshire Police Federation is calling on members to “do one thing” to look after their own or others’ mental health to mark World Mental Health Day on Sunday (10 October).
For example, they could check in on a colleague, find out more about mental health and wellbeing provision from the Police Federation, or reach out to their representative if they need support.
Federation branch chair Phil Jones said: “I’m a firm believer in doing something before you reach crisis point. The one thing you do this week could save you or a colleague months of effort and recovery further down the line.
“Events such as World Mental Health Day are great reminders to reach out and get help from the Federation or check in on others who may not be doing so well.
“There’s really no time like the present to get something done.”
Phil’s call is inspired by Mind’s “Do One Thing” campaign, which is also encouraging blue light services to “do one thing” to promote better mental health.
Later this autumn, the mental health charity’s Mind’s Blue Light Programme will run a campaign aimed at challenging the stigma that often prevents emergency services workers from talking about their mental health.
According to the Police Federation of England and Wales’ July 2021 Pay and Morale Survey, 69 per cent of respondents reported they have experienced difficulties with their mental health and wellbeing over the past 12 months, either caused or exacerbated by work.
However, just 22 per cent of them had subsequently sought help.
Find out more about World Mental Health Day.
