Free addiction support for members

14 February 2024

Free support is now available to Gwent Police Federation members living with addiction.

The Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) has partnered with Help4Addiction and Rehubs to offer 24/7, confidential guidance on various addiction issues Federation members may be struggling with.

Gwent Police Federation chair Matthew Candy says the demands of the profession mean it is vital police officers are able to access these services.

“Police officers deal with difficult circumstances every day. It comes with the territory and is why most of my colleagues join the job in the first place - but this shouldn’t be to the detriment of their own welfare,” said Matthew.

“Officers are just as susceptible to addiction as the next person, and we want them to know they are not alone. There are ways to get their lives back on track.”

Members can use the Help4Addiction helpline, which provides a safe space to talk about addiction problems impacting their lives. Crucially, while the helpline is available to Police Federation members, it is completely independent and therefore ensures non-judgemental support when they need it most.

The apps have been launched by former cop Nick Conn.

Matthew continued: “Job-related or not, the reality is that many officers need help but will not admit it to anyone. Seeking support is personal and it is important they know they have somewhere to turn to in complete confidence.”

Additionally, the Rehubs app offers a modern, digital approach to addiction recovery with an online rehabilitation programme. Federation members can download the app for free from the App Store or Google Play Store through the use of the code ‘POLFED’. Members should submit this code under the ‘use company code’ prompt at the bottom of the payment page.

Both platforms provide help on all types of addiction, including alcohol, drugs, gambling and pornography. They were launched by former cop Nick Conn, who experienced addiction himself when he was training in the Metropolitan Police as a 19-year-old.

More than 20 years later, having successfully beaten addiction, Nick went on to develop Help4Addiction, an organisation dedicated to providing others with essential support and guidance.

Matthew says no Federation member should think they have to fight addiction on their own because they feel a duty to be constantly strong and in control.

“Officers need help sometimes too, and that’s okay,” he ended.

If you or somebody you know is suffering from addiction and needs support, call Help4Addiction on: 0330 058 8227 or download Rehubs for FREE today.