#MentalHealthAwarenessWeek: Resources are available to members following a year of personal struggles for all

12 May 2021

Mental Health Awareness Week runs from 10 - 16 May 2021, and Hampshire Police Federation is highlighting the resources available to its members following a year of personal struggles for all.

Whether it’s been through COVID, traumatic work incidents or your own personal circumstances, there is help for you.

In 2021 mental health is far from a taboo subject and we hear colleagues freely talking about their own mental health.

But we can’t rest and need to keep fighting to ensure mental health is in people’s conversations, in our leaders’ wellbeing agendas and through the communities we police.

We are fighting for access to the necessary support and services for our members living with any mental health condition.

Nearly 70% of blue light emergency workers say their mental health has worsened during the pandemic, meaning it’s vital we all talk about it.

Hampshire Police Federation Treasurer and Wellbeing Champion Nicki Bell said the awareness week would help shine a spotlight on the issue.

“One in four people experience a mental health problem each year, and research from the Blue Light Covid-19 Response report shows that 69% of emergency responders feel their mental health has deteriorated as a result of the pandemic,” Nicki said.

“There has never been a better time to highlight the support available to all members of the police family and to show you that you are not alone.

“The Mental Health Awareness Week from 10th – 16th May brings together all of this support and focuses on getting people to connect with nature, which is so crucial for both our mental (and physical) health.

“Watch out for more posts from us and join the conversations on social media using #ConnectWithNature #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek #FightForMH and let’s step up the fight for mental health.”

#FightForMH #MHAW

See all the online links on our website https://www.polfed.org/hants/your-wellbeing/or contact us:

Tel: 02380 478920

Internal no: 4726 418

Email: Hampshire@polfed.org