Federation welcomes crisis helpline extension to former officers
9 October 2026
North Wales Police Federation has welcomed the independent and confidential Mental Health Crisis Line being extended to former officers.
Developed by Oscar Kilo - The National Police Wellbeing Service (NPWS) – the Crisis Line was launched for officers and staff in England and Wales last year.
Since then, it has received more than 440 calls, providing in-the-moment crisis support.
Now it has been extended to anyone who has left policing, regardless of whether they retired, resigned or were dismissed.
Sergeant Sarah Hughes-Jones, North Wales Police Federation wellbeing lead and deputy equality lead, said: “The Mental Health Crisis Line is an absolute lifeline that has already helped hundreds of people over the past year.
“The extension to former officers and staff is welcome, particularly given the lasting impact a policing career can have.
“It is a challenging but rewarding career, but it can take its toll on your wellbeing, even after you’ve left policing, so anything that supports people’s mental health is to be welcomed.
Crisis Line
“And I’d remind our members that the Crisis Line is for serving officers too.
“No one should feel ashamed or afraid to speak up if they are struggling, and no one has to go through it alone. The helpline is there for you.
It provides in-the-moment support to people experiencing a mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts.
Callers speak to qualified counsellors trained in suicide prevention who understand the pressures and experiences associated with policing.
Independent and confidential
The service is completely independent and confidential, with information from calls not shared with Force line managers.
Sarah is also encouraging members to use World Mental Health Day on 10 October as an opportunity to think about their own wellbeing.
She said: “World Mental Health Day is a good opportunity for officers to stop and concentrate on their own wellbeing and whether they are giving it the attention it deserves.
Mental health
“Looking after your mental health is just as important as looking after your physical health.
“It is not a sign of weakness to ask for help, and you do not have to wait until you are struggling to take action.
“Whether that means talking to someone you trust, making time for yourself, accessing the support available through the Force or Federation, or simply recognising that you need to make your wellbeing more of a priority.”
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