Help at hand if you are struggling financially

25 March 2020

Officers are being encouraged to ask for support if they run into financial difficulties during the coronavirus outbreak.

With the worldwide economy taking a pounding, businesses and individuals have faced a chastening daily update of a downward spiral that has already had a detrimental effect on so many people’s lives.

And Hertfordshire Police Federation secretary Al Wollaston says police officers are no different.

“We want members to speak up if they feel they are facing increased financial pressures because there are a range of organisations that can offer help,” says Al.

“In these testing times, financial pressures could be exacerbated if a partner loses their job or is forced to self-isolate and there is plenty of practical help and advice available for them to ease people through their worries.

“Whether that involves getting a mortgage payment break, a loan or just getting some helpful advice, I would urge officers to discuss their concerns with us or contact any one of the specialist organisations working to support officers manage their finances. Practical help and support is available.”

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 Hertfordshire Police Federation office staff, full-time officials or workplace representatives if you are worried about your finances.