Federation urges Members to complete national wellbeing survey

16 June 2026

North Yorkshire Police Federation secretary Tony Barnes is encouraging members to take part in a survey which can help shape work on problem issues in policing.

The National Police Workforce and Wellbeing Survey, held by Oscar Kilo, the National Police Wellbeing Service, runs until 22 June.

It gives members the chance to share their experiences of policing, including workload and demand, leadership and culture, team environment, organisational support and personal wellbeing.

Tony said: “Members are dealing with increasing demand, growing complexity of cases, and relentless pressure and this survey is a chance to make sure those realities are properly understood by policy and decision-makers.

"It allows members to voice their concerns and help to shape the direction of workforce and wellbeing support.

Branch secretary Tony Barnes.

“The more members who take the survey, the stronger our voice, and the clearer the picture about the issues facing them.”

Last year's survey received more than 40,000 responses, making it one of the largest workforce surveys ever conducted in UK policing.

The results revealed:

45 per cent of respondents reported often feeling burnt out.
55 per cent experienced persistent physical fatigue.
60 per cent said they found it difficult to take enough breaks.
One in three respondents reported experiencing a physical assault in the previous year.
58 per cent of those who had experienced discrimination said they had not reported it.

However, the survey also highlighted positive aspects of policing, with:

80 per cent saying their team pulls together to get the job done
81 per cent feeling trusted to do their job
89 per cent expressing confidence in their skills, knowledge and experience
67 per cent saying they remain proud of the work they do
67 per cent know how to access health and wellbeing support should they need it

Tony said: “Whether your experiences have been positive or difficult, taking ten minutes to complete the survey can help influence future wellbeing initiatives, workplace support and wider organisational change.

Oscar Kilo

"If we want policing to become a healthier, more sustainable profession for current and future officers, we need as many people as possible to take part. Every response matters and every voice counts."

Andy Rhodes, Oscar Kilo service director, added: “Last year, more than 40,000 people across policing took the time to tell us what the job really feels like. That mattered - and it has already led to real action.

“The findings have helped shape national wellbeing work, informed reform discussions, and supported deeper work on issues like psychological safety, fatigue and the drivers of wellbeing.

“This year’s survey builds on that progress. The new name - the National Police Workforce and Wellbeing Survey - reflects something important: wellbeing does not sit on its own. It is shaped by workload, leadership, team culture and the way organisations support their people day to day.”

More information about the survey, including how to complete it, is available on the Oscar Kilo website.