5 September 2024

Startling rise in mental ill health among police officers

More than 14,500 UK police officers were signed off work over the past year due to stress, depression, anxiety or PTSD it can be revealed.

Nationally, this figure is 9% up on last year - and a staggering 130% higher than when the survey was first run 11 years ago.

In Dorset, 355 police officers were signed off work over the past year due to stress, depression, anxiety or PTSD in the financial year 2023-2024. That figure was 103 in 2019/20.

James Dimmack, Chair of Dorset Police Federation, said: “I am appalled yet sadly not surprised by these figures. Dorset sickness through mental health related illness has more than tripled on the figures from five years ago. 

“Officers are constantly being asked to do more usually with less. Shrinking budgets from central Government are squeezing the police service to death. This squeeze is being felt all too harshly on the ever-diminishing front line.

“The beauty of Policing is the “can do” attitude and the notion that we will always get the job done. This is still the case but at what cost. Alas that cost is plain to see in these figures.”

James added: “I am often asked how can we fix this? The answer is obvious and that is to invest in people don’t hide behind figures and “uplifting” headlines. Dorset is the second worst funded Police service in England in Wales.

“Over half of our funding comes from the people of Dorset not from the Government. How can this be right? Dorset is a beautiful vibrant place to live work and visit. Because of this we are overwhelmed with people all year round which is not appropriately calculated for in our funding.

“These appalling figures around mental health are a stark reminder of the nature of Policing which tragically unchecked this is liable to deteriorate unless action is taken.

“I would like to show my huge appreciation for all Dorset police officers and all they have done. Especially in the recent summer period including huge disruption through protests. You do a fabulous job but please look after yourself.”

The National Police Chiefs’ Council’s (NPCC) Wellbeing Lead, Andy Rhodes, said: “Policing is an extremely fulfilling profession where officers can make a genuine difference to people’s lives and to their communities. Sadly the role they play means they can often be faced with some incredibly challenging and hostile situations and, over time, this can take a toll.

“For example, the recent unprecedented violent disorder saw more than 300 officers physically injured across the country and many more will also be impacted psychologically, although sometimes it may not surface for many years after the incident.

“Stressful, fast-paced situations and repeat exposure to trauma can affect officers and many police staff in a number of ways, which is why we are committed to supporting the psychological wellbeing of our people, working closely with leading experts and with the dedicated Occupational Health teams in forces.”