Police Workforce and Wellbeing Survey: ‘make your voice heard’

16 June 2026

‘Your voice matters,’ says Durham Police Federation chair Louise Guest as she encouraged members to complete the National Police Workforce and Wellbeing Survey.

The confidential survey is run by Oscar Kilo, the National Police Wellbeing Service.

It gathers information about the realities of working in policing, covering issues including workload, wellbeing, leadership, organisational culture and support.

The findings are used to inform policy, wellbeing programmes, and wider discussions around policing reform.

Branch chair Louise Guest

Louise said: “This survey is an important opportunity for officers to tell policy makers and decision makers about the realities of policing.

“What is working well? Where do improvements need to be made?

“The more people who take part, the clearer the picture of the challenges our members face and the support they need.

“Your voice matters. Please make it heard.”

Survey

The survey is now open and runs until Monday 22 June, and takes around 10 minutes to complete.

More than 40,000 people from across policing completed last year's survey, helping create one of the most comprehensive assessments of workforce wellbeing ever undertaken in the service.

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 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

The results have already helped shape work around fatigue, recovery, psychological safety and wellbeing, while also informing national conversations about the future of policing.

Wellbeing

Louise said: “Previous surveys have played an important role in driving conversations about officer wellbeing and welfare.

“We want to ensure the experiences of North Wales officers continue to be reflected in that national picture.

"I would encourage every member to spare a few minutes to complete the survey. It is a small investment of time that can contribute to long-term improvements for officers and staff."

More information about the survey, including how to complete it, is available on the Oscar Kilo website.

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