Mental Health Awareness Week runs from 11-17 May, and this year the theme is Action. While awareness is crucial, taking action is what will create change. We have come a long way in policing on mental health, but there is still more to do. We have to prioritise preventing people from becoming unwell in the first place.
That’s difficult in policing. There are so many variables, so many things we can’t control. At work, we know to expect the unexpected. But when it comes to our wellbeing, there’s something to be said for focusing on what we can control.
Taking action for ourselves
As individuals, we can all find one thing to boost our mental health. There are quick wins like planning something to look forward to and making time for friends. Longer-term healthy habits might include improving your diet, making more time for exercise or working to improve your sleep.
Taking action for others
This could be as simple as saying hello to your neighbours, starting a conversation with a work colleague, or checking in on a friend. Supervisors have a role here in noticing when things change with team members. We all worry about saying the wrong thing, but it could make someone’s day or save their life.
Taking action in our force
It’s so important that we prioritise wellbeing at work, create an environment where everyone feels they belong, and have policies that treat people with compassion and dignity. We know CNC is on the same page as us, and we continue to engage with the leadership team on wellbeing.
Where to find support
The Federation
Our representatives are trained to be a listening ear but can also signpost you to support within CNC and externally, and guide you through those processes. There is also the Group Insurance Scheme, which enables members to access services such as on-demand GP appointments, potentially reducing waiting times.
The Force
The Employee Assistance Programme provides information, signposting, guidance and counselling on a range of issues. These include personal matters such as relationship problems, help with family issues, loneliness, bereavement and loss, all of which can affect mental wellbeing.
Affinity Networks
When you’re facing challenges, it can be reassuring to speak with someone whose lived experience is similar to your own. Social and professional support is available from the Affinity Networks i.e. the Gender Affinity Inclusion Network, LGBT+ Network, Diverse Ability and Wellness Network, or the Faith and Minority Ethnic Network. Contact details are available on the Intranet or from the Federation.
Police Charities
There are a number of charities that provide mental health support and related assistance for the police family, such as:
The Police Treatment Centres offer a psychological wellbeing programme
The Police Firearms Officers Association (PFOA) provides access to counselling, eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing therapy (EMDR) and cognitive behavioural therapy
Police Care UK offers psychological and financial support.