Cambridgeshire Police Federation is encouraging members to share their experiences of working in policing in this year’s National Workforce and Wellbeing Survey.
Branch chair Liz Groom said members can help shape the direction of wellbeing policies and initiatives by making their voices heard.
And she said the more officers and Specials that take part, the louder their voices will be.
Launched by Oscar Kilo, the National Police Wellbeing Service, the survey is open until 22 June.
It aims to provide a comprehensive picture of workforce experience, wellbeing, and the challenges facing those working on the frontline.
Last year, more than 40,000 people across policing took part, helping create the clearest picture yet of what it’s really like to work in policing today.
The results have been used to:
- shape work on sleep, fatigue and recovery
- inform policing reform
- support deeper work on issues like psychological safety and the drivers of wellbeing
This year’s survey has been expanded to explore workload pressures, leadership and culture, demand, wellbeing, and organisational support.
Liz said: “The survey gives members an opportunity to speak honestly about what it is really like to work in policing today.
“Whether your concerns relate to workload, wellbeing, leadership, resources or support, your experiences matter and deserve to be heard.
“If we want decision-makers to understand the realities officers are dealing with every day, we need as many people as possible to take part.
“The stronger the response, the stronger the call for change, and I would urge every member to spend the few minutes it takes to complete it.
Challenges identified in last year’s survey included:
- 45 per cent of respondents reported often feeling burnt out
- 55 per cent said they experience persistent physical fatigue
- One third reported experiencing a physical assault in the past year
- Officers working in high-risk roles (e.g. response, CID, public protection) showed higher levels of emotional exhaustion and lower wellbeing
- 58 per cent of those who had experienced discrimination didn’t report it
- Three out of five find it difficult to take enough breaks
Strengths included:
- Four out of five (80 per cent) of respondents said their team pulls together to get the job done
- 81 per cent feel trusted to do their job
- 89 per cent feel confident in their knowledge, skills and experience to do their job
- 67 per cent continue to feel proud of the work they do
- 65 per cent identified their line manager as their most trusted support pathway
- Two-thirds (67 per cent) know how to access health and wellbeing support should they need it
Liz said: “Previous survey findings have helped drive action around officer wellbeing, fatigue, and workplace culture.
“By taking part this year, you can help ensure that work continues and that the experiences of Cambridgeshire officers are properly represented.”
The survey takes around 10 minutes to complete and is completely confidential.