Massive jump in police sick days
MENTAL stress and injury cost 72,000 police shifts in the past year amid a dramatic escalation of sick days.
The colossal loss of days represented the equivalent of more than 350 full-time Victoria Police members off the job and on WorkCover for the year.
The force’s annual report showed there were 72,775 shifts lost in 2016/2017.
That compared with 38,662 two years earlier.
A total of 1130 claims were made at an average cost of $7434.
Mental health issues in law enforcement have again come into sharp focus in recent years with an alarming number of suspected officer suicides.
Victoria Police acting Deputy Commissioner Luke Cornelius said the surge was, in part, due to the force’s increased awareness of mental health issues after the major 2016 review made by Dr Peter Cotton.
“The increased awareness of mental health issues is considered healthy and the increase in claims was foreseen,” he said.
Mr Cornelius said Victoria Police worked hard to prevent workplace injuries and illness, but members were put in dangerous situations every day.
For 24/7 crisis support as well as suicide prevention services, phone Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au/ gethelp. THE Cotton On Group headquarters have had a Run Geelong-themed makeover days out from the event’s return.
Artist Joel Moore, better known as Mulga, painted a mural depicting a sea of people wearing red event T-shirts at the start line of the popular fun run, with Geelong’s picturesque waterfront in the background.
Run Australia general manager Sam McGuane said the mural was a perfect fit for the fun, creative culture at the Cotton On Group.
“It was really important to me that we brought to life Run Geelong for our team members at our head office, who are incredibly passionate about the work we do for fundraising for the local community,” Mr McGuane said. “We wanted a visual reminder that spoke to Cotton On Group’s creative culture and our focus on working with the community.”
Mulga, who often encourages community participation in his murals, welcomed the help of staff to help complete the painting. Known for his distinct style and use of bright colours, he also recently designed a range exclusive to Cotton On Kids.
Run Geelong returns on Sunday and will raise funds for Barwon Health’s paediatric rehabilitation services. There’s an event to suit everyone, with the Cotton On 12km Run, Cotton On Body 6km Run, Cotton On 6km Family Walk and the Cotton On Kids 1km Kids Dash on offer.
To register visit runaustralia.com.au/register/ #geelong