‘Without the Federation, I don’t think I’d be back at work’ says branch member

30 January 2026

An officer has paid tribute to the Federation during its Week of Visibility (starting Monday 26 January) after the branch played what he describes as an ‘invaluable’ role in supporting his recovery and return to work following serious mental health difficulties.

After experiencing ‘the most testing period of his 19-year career’, Sergeant Dan Amos is now three weeks into his return to Force duties following an enforced period away from policing.

The operational dog handler says his time off allowed him to reflect on both himself and his relationship with the job, and he credits the Federation with being there ‘every step of the way’ as he worked towards recovery.

Dan first noticed himself becoming more anxious and overwhelmed at work in the middle of last year. What began as low-level stress gradually intensified, before a combination of personal and professional pressures left him at breaking point.

 

Operational dog handler Sergeant Dan Amos

 

“It’s hard to pinpoint exactly what started it all, but I know I had a few workplace issues I wasn’t sure how to resolve, and looking back, I think I was just generally burnt out,” he said.

“The anxiety began to creep up, and I wasn’t dealing with things I would normally take in my stride. I was catastrophising things in my head, which can happen when you don’t talk to anyone about them, because you are just drowning in your own thoughts.”

Over time, Dan found himself experiencing panic attacks before and during shifts, while continuing to work and doing his best to hide how much he was struggling.

His situation was compounded by emotional difficulties linked to his role as a dog handler. His first general-purpose dog since starting his current post in 2021, Obi, retired, which took a significant toll on Dan and his family.

Relationship

When Dan was then partnered with Obi’s successor, doubts began to creep in about how much more he could give to the role he loved.

“I was very attached to Obi, as were my wife and daughter. When you’re having a hard time at work, and then one of your favourite parts of what you do suddenly changes, it gets even more difficult,” he continued.

“Of course, I don’t blame anything on the new dog itself, but it’s fair to say our relationship wasn’t quite working. I remember looking up to the sky and thinking, ‘I am so done right now’. I was just broken.

“I couldn’t sleep that night, and the next day, I went to the doctor and told him what I’d been going through. I then sent an email to work with the fit note – I couldn’t face an actual conversation – and shut my laptop, and that was it until I came back this month.”

In September last year, shortly after Dan was signed off, branch treasurer Paul Coxall noticed his name on the Force’s absence list and made contact.

“Paul checked in with me, and from that point onwards, everything started to feel a bit lighter. He really emphasised the fact I was not on my own, and made it clear the Federation would stick by me throughout this hard time,” Dan continued. 

Recovery

“Jane Gettings, the branch office administrator, also took the time to explain all my entitlements as a Fed member.

“They were both incredible and helped set me on the road to recovery.”

Through this support, Dan was able to access free therapy sessions via Police Care UK, facilitated by the Federation’s Group Insurance Scheme (GIS), as well as a week-long residential stay at Flint House. He was also supported in claiming financial assistance following his bite injury, again with help from the GIS.

“It wasn’t an easy journey, but I knew there were people in my corner and thanks to them, I could see things improving.”

With ongoing guidance from Paul and Jane, Dan was able to plan a phased and realistic return to work.

“I feel good so far, but I know I need to keep on top of things,” he said. “I’m still in the middle of the therapy, and crucially, I still have people backing me.

Struggling

“Paul is my main point-of-contact as I reacclimatise, and Jane has still been checking in regularly.

“Words cannot express how grateful I am to them - they have gone above and beyond for me. Without the Federation, I really don’t think I’d be back right now.”

Branch chair Luke Mitchell praised Dan for sharing his experience: “I want to say a big thank-you to Dan for sharing his story. We know the world of policing can be tough, and it can be extremely difficult if you suddenly find yourself overwhelmed.

“But as a Federation, we see you and we are here for you - the compassion shown by Paul and Jane here is proof of that.

“We will always endeavour to be proactive, but if you are struggling, please know we are only ever a phone call, email or chat with a Fed rep away.”

Samaritans: 116 123

Oscar Kilo’s Mental Health Crisis Line: 0300 131 2789

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