The chair of Staffordshire Police Federation welcomed the extension of a programme offering members welfare support including clinical assessments and counselling.
Lee Robinson said the Welfare Support Programme offers members “invaluable support when they need it most”.
The Welfare Support Programme is run by Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS), an independent charity providing medical welfare to the armed forces, veterans, NHS staff and emergency services.
Funded by the Police Federation of England and Wales, it offers a range of confidential and independent services from clinical assessments to counselling with fully trained and accredited professionals.
More than 500 members have received timely and ongoing mental health support since DMWS started operating the programme in December 2020.
The Federation has announced it’s continuing to work with DMWS for another 12 months from December.
Lee said: “This is really welcome news. Our members go above and beyond every day and risk their own safety to keep the public safe so it’s only right and proper that we provide them with the support they need.
“Many will also be experiencing issues brought about by the cost of living crisis or still dealing with the impact of the pandemic.
“Our Welfare Support Programme offers them invaluable support when they need it most. It’s already making a difference to members and I’m delighted that it will continue to do so.
“I’d encourage any of our members who are struggling with their emotional and mental wellbeing to take that step and seek support. Our reps are there for you and can help you find the support you need.”
The Welfare Support Programme provides:
- Practical and mental support
- Clinical assessments and dedicated counselling
- Person-centred support (via telephone or face-to-face)
- Access to fully trained and accredited professionals
- Independent and confidential support
- Referrals to appropriate follow-on specialist support.
The Federation has received testimonials from members who have been supported by DMWS.
“That kind of support is priceless, and I count myself as being very lucky to have been provided with such help and support from such an amazing charity,” said one member, adding: “I want it to be known what a difference it has made to me – especially when I have felt unsupported by others.”
Find out more by contacting the Staffordshire Police Federation branch or workplace reps.
