24/7 mental health helpline now available to Fed members

19 August 2025

A new mental health helpline has been launched specifically for police officers and staff by Oscar Kilo, the National Police Wellbeing Service.

Contactable 24/7, 365 days a year, the Mental Health Crisis Line is an independent and confidential source of support for those in policing going through difficulties such as suicidal thoughts, self-harm, grief and trauma.

The helpline’s call handlers are trained, experienced counsellors with an understanding of the policing world and its unique demands and stressors.

These operators can provide callers with immediate help and keep them safe and secure in times of emergency, as well as signpost them to further support based on individual needs and arrange follow-up calls where necessary.

All information is received in strict confidence and will never be shared with the Force, line management or occupational health.

Commenting on the launch of the helpline, branch chair Sam Dobbs said: “I welcome this initiative from Oscar Kilo, which I think has all the makings of a solid line of support for our Federation members – it is independent, confidential, and bespoke to our profession.

“On a daily basis, those in policing face challenges and expectations like no one else in society. These are enough to grind anyone down and affect their wellbeing, so officers and staff need quality support around them at all times.

“I would urge all our members to make a note of this helpline, for if you are ever struggling, there will be someone on the other end of the phone, day or night, ready to provide you with that vital support.

Support

“I would also encourage you to be vocal about this recent launch and promote it among your colleagues, because you never know who might need to reach out to it at some point. 

Oscar Kilo has set the Mental Health Crisis Line up as part of its commitment to suicide prevention within policing, which forms part of a wider remit to ensure officers and staff have access to first-standard wellbeing support.

It is running the service in partnership with The Ambulance Staff Charity (TASC), using TASC’s experience of delivering a similar platform to police and fire service personnel.

The helpline will also run alongside the specialist bereavement counselling service designed to help those impacted by the suicide of a colleague.

Federation members can call the Mental Health Crisis Line around the clock on 0300 131 2789. For more information, you can visit the Oscar Kilo website.

READ MORE: BPWRFC skipper discusses pride at culture change.