Cambridgeshire Police Federation chair Liz Groom says officer wellbeing is a priority as she welcomed the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) first response policing week of action.
The initiative, which was launched yesterday (Monday 15 March), aims to recognise and celebrate the work of response police officers with a specific focus on their wellbeing.
The week will also highlight resources available to officers to help them address important issues such as fatigue and resilience.
Liz said the week could not have been launched at a better time.
“Now more than ever, it is important that we look after our own wellbeing and that of those around us,” she said, adding, “This week is an opportunity to encourage response and all other officers to reach out for support if they need it and also signpost useful resources for them if they need help.
“However, I want to remind officers that although this week gives us a good platform to talk about wellbeing, it is important to remember that the Federation is here to support our members all year round.
“Looking after our members’ wellbeing is an absolute priority and it is vital that they each feel supported and listened to.”
The NPCC has worked with Oscar Kilo, the National Police Wellbeing Service (NPWS), the College of Policing, as well as the Police Federation, to deliver a range of activities throughout the week.
Wellbeing vans will be deployed across the UK and wellbeing dogs will be available to some forces. Oscar Kilo will be hosting webinars around sleep, fatigue and resilience, while toolkits on self-care and compassion will be accessible.
A number of engagement opportunities for frontline officers will be taking place, including a #WECOPS response policing conversation with NPCC wellbeing lead Chief Constable Andy Rhodes and response policing lead Deputy Chief Constable Serena Kennedy.