Make a positive difference on mental health

7 October 2021

As World Mental Health Day draws closer, Derbyshire Police Federation is encouraging members to consider how they can do just one thing to benefit mental health.

Federation chair Tony Wetton said: “The past few years have been exceptionally tough for policing and we’ve seen how it’s impacted the mental health of colleagues across the board.

“Looking after your mental health is vitally important, and even small changes can make a big impact, so please do take the time to check up on a colleague, ask what provisions exist and see how you can make a positive difference for yourself and others.”

World Mental Health Day is on Sunday (10 October).

Tony’s call is inspired by Mind’s “Do One Thing” campaign, which is also encouraging blue light services to do “one thing” to promote better mental health.

Later this autumn, Mind’s Blue Light Programme will run a campaign aimed at challenging the stigma that often prevents emergency services workers from talking about their mental health.

According to the Police Federation of England and Wales’ July 2021 Pay and Morale Survey, 69 per cent of respondents reported they have experienced difficulties with their mental health and wellbeing over the past 12 months, either caused or exacerbated by work.

However, just 22 per cent of them had subsequently sought help.

Find out more about World Mental Health Day.