Since its launch, the wellbeing van has become an invaluable part of supporting officers across the Force, offering a unique combination of practical help, advice, and a visible sign of care from the Federation.

Here, full-time Federation representative Emma Arthurs-Newman, equality and wellbeing lead, reflects on the van’s journey and the impact it has made over the past six months.

With Emma taking on the role of full-time Fed rep in July, it was then that she committed to 12 welfare tours over 12 months - one ‘welfare van tour’ tour a month, including visits to major events such as football matches. 

The aim was simple - to bring support directly to officers, wherever they are, and wherever it’s needed most. Already, the van has engaged with more than 500 members.

“We originally named the van ‘Feels on Wheels’ - we wanted it to break down barriers and spark conversations, but it’s become so much more than that,” said Emma.

“I love it, and we’ve had no shortage of volunteers willing to take part.”

One of the highlights came in October, during the local derby between Ipswich and Norwich, when four Fed reps took to the van. 

Equipped with a coffee machine, hot beverages, snacks, and a warm, welcoming space, the van offered officers a short but meaningful break from their demanding duties.

Caramel latte

“These officers have had cancelled rest days, they’re away from families and loved ones at the weekend,” says Emma. “A caramel latte from our coffee machine, a snack - it sounds small, but it changes their whole day. It’s a token of appreciation that really means the world.” 

Feedback from officers confirmed this, with many admitting that seeing the van at the football made them feel cared for. 

Emma added: “It’s such a simple thing, but for some, it truly matters.”

The van has also played an important role in wellbeing awareness. During Men’s Health Month (November), the team toured stations with Men’s Health Coach Joe Ball.

 “We understand that not everyone can make it to professional services, so we wanted to bring the professionals to them,” Emma explained.

“The sessions proved popular, helping officers who might usually remain closed off to open up. In just one week, we reached 80 officers, offering a pack of jelly beans as an icebreaker - encouraging participants to ‘spill the beans’ while enjoying a small treat.”

Safeguarding

Beyond wellbeing, the van has provided a platform for advice and education. In October, a visit to Rowan House saw the CID safeguarding team joined by Gallaghers, who manage the Group Insurance Scheme. 

This gave officers the chance to learn about services they might not have known existed, from insurance benefits to workplace guidance. 

When the project first started, Emma admitted that she questioned whether officers would get bored of visits, but Emma says the opposite has been true. 

“We see new officers and new faces all the time. The van has already broken down so many walls. Chief officers are even asking us to take it to more rural stations, where officers can feel more isolated,” she said.

Emma also said the wellbeing van has changed how officers see the Federation. 

Visibility

She said: “It also gives the Federation credibility and increases visibility of the branch. 

“Officers usually only see us when they’re in trouble — now they see the Federation proactively offering support and advice.

“We’ve also found that it frees up email delays, as officers can ask questions directly instead of sending them through email.”

Looking ahead to 2026, Emma is optimistic. 

She ended: “The van has helped improve visibility of the Federation,  and engagement across the Force. 

“There’s been a lot of growth, and we have plenty more planned for next year. We want every officer to know that support is available - wherever they are, whenever they need it.”

READ MORE: Why membership of the Suffolk Group Insurance Scheme truly matters.