Ask for help if you are in financial difficulties

25 March 2020

Police officers should not be afraid to ask for help if they run into financial difficulties during the coronavirus crisis, according to Derbyshire Police Federation chair Tony Wetton.

With people losing their jobs or unable to work during self-isolation, many officers could – along with other families – find their household income is significantly reduced.

“We are all too aware of the fact that police officers are already under huge mental strain due to the challenges of their role and the current crisis is likely to add to that with financial difficulties just piling on the pressure,” says Tony.

“But we would urge officers to speak up and not fear seeking help or advice if they are struggling to make ends meet, or indeed if the mental strain is becoming too much.

“There are a wide range of support organisations who can step in with practical help for police officers through loans, advice on managing their finances or obtaining a mortgage payment holiday, for example.”

Belinda Goodwin, national wellbeing secretary for the Police Federation of England and Wales, has admitted the growing crisis will bring ‘unprecedented financial, mental health and physical problems’ for officers and their families.

“There’s no escaping the fact finances will be stretched to breaking point and we’ll all be placed under a new type of pressure which none of us has ever experienced before,” she explained.

“As police officers, we cope with the unimaginable every day. This though is a brand new, unknown challenge which we’ll face together and head-on as always. At this difficult time, there’s one piece of advice the Federation can give members which will have far-reaching consequences: please don’t bury your head in the sand and think this will just pass over.”

Belinda added: “For many years the Federation has worked alongside business partners to offer member benefits and discounts on a range of products. These partners are now stepping up to the mark to help you with your finances and wellbeing.”

Visit the Federation’s financial support page for more information or contact the Derbyshire Police Federation office staff, full-time officials or workplace representatives if you are worried about your finances.