Officers need mental health help, says head of police union

THE Police Federation has called for more help to protect mental health, as a quarter of police officers worldwide drink to “hazardous” levels, according to a University College London study.

The research, published in the journal Occupational and Environmental Medicine, revealed that one in seven police officers worldwide meet the criteria for post traumatic stress disorder and depression.

Marking Mental Health Awareness Week, the chairman of the Police Federation has said that officers should be given the same support as other frontline workers battling the pandemic. John Apter, National Chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales, said: “The Government should do more to protect officers both physically and mentally. The challenges, dangers and threats officers face are often unpredictable, but their unique and selfless support means they adapt and deal with the unknown. The last few difficult weeks prove this.

“Our colleagues on the front line have been putting themselves and their families in harm’s way to help save lives and ease the burden on the NHS; a testament to their dedication. It’s only right that officers, police staff, retired colleagues and their families are given the support and recognition they deserve in return.”

The report’s lead author, Dr Jo Billings, said: “Police officers show a substantial burden of mental health problems, emphasising the need for effective interventions and monitoring.”