Suffolk Police Federation chair Darren Harris is supporting the initiative.

Suffolk Police Federation chair Darren Harris has thrown his full support behind a newly launched 24/7 Mental Health Crisis Line aimed at helping police officers and staff in their moments of greatest need.

The confidential helpline, launched by Oscar Kilo – the National Police Wellbeing Service – is now live and offers immediate, specialist support for anyone in policing experiencing serious emotional or psychological distress, including suicidal thoughts, trauma, bereavement or self-harm.

Darren said the new service could be a lifeline for those working on the frontline under extreme pressure, and urged anyone struggling not to suffer in silence.

Support

“I’m throwing my full support behind this service because it’s not just another initiative - it’s a vital, potentially life-saving resource for our colleagues. Policing is tough. It takes a toll, often in ways we don’t talk about enough," said Darren.

“We need to look out for each other - and that starts by making sure people know help is out there, and they can reach for it.”

The helpline is manned by qualified counsellors with direct experience of supporting emergency service workers, meaning callers will speak to someone who not only understands mental health, but understands policing.

Darren added: “Our officers and staff face trauma, high-stakes decisions, and relentless pressure day in and day out.

“The reality is that many are struggling behind the scenes, often feeling they have to carry on regardless. But no one should feel ashamed or afraid to speak up - and now, no one has to go through it alone.”

All calls are entirely confidential. No information shared will be passed to the Force, line management or occupational health. The goal is simple: to provide a safe, non-judgemental space where officers and staff can speak openly and receive the right support at the right time.

Partnership

The helpline is delivered in partnership with The Ambulance Staff Charity (TASC) and is part of Oscar Kilo’s wider national strategy to support mental health and reduce suicide in policing. It is also backed by Police and Crime Commissioners through the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC).

“I’d encourage everyone in Suffolk Police to save the number and share it widely,” Darren said. “Even if you don’t need it now, someone else might. Let’s break the stigma, start the conversation, and support each other better. We deserve that.”

For more information, visit the Oscar Kilo website.

The Mental Health Crisis Line is available now. Call 0300 131 2789 anytime, day or night.

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