Sussex Police Federation Urges Government Action as Officer Wellbeing Hits Breaking Point

12 August 2025

The number of officers reporting burnout is a direct result of the police service trying to service too much demand, Sussex Police Federation has said.

New figures from the National Police Wellbeing Service show that 45% of officers are suffering burnout, with 55% reporting ‘persistent physical fatigue’.

And Sussex Police Federation Chair Raffaele Cioffi says these figures are no surprise given the stresses officers are facing in the job.

He said: “We're still looking for a solution in relation to resourcing versus demand and that is a key part of the problem we face. The public demand for police is outstripping our capacity and we are trying to service to much demand. Something needs to give and it can't be at the expense of our members' health.

"Politicians are talking the talk, but there's not a lot of action from the Government at the moment. We talk about wellbeing a lot, but there’s never any follow-through. It’s time to take action – and who holds that responsibility?

"It has to be the Government, because right now our Chief Constable is up against the wall in terms of resources and funding. The Government needs to step in and do what’s necessary to plug that gap."

More than 40,000 officers took part in the survey, which also showed that officers working in high-risk roles (such as response, CID, and public protection) reported higher levels of emotional exhaustion and lower wellbeing.

And 33% of respondents reported experiencing a physical assault in the past year; while 60% said they find it difficult to take enough breaks.

Andy Rhodes, Service Director for the National Police Wellbeing Service, said: “This is a vital moment for policing to listen, understand, and act. We now have the clearest picture yet of where the service is – and what needs to change.

“Wellbeing isn’t just ‘nice to have’, it’s critical for you, your family, your team, and the public you serve. This is about us all working together to create a culture where everyone feels valued, supported, and able to thrive.

“But this survey is not just about collecting data – it’s about taking action.

“The results will directly influence work happening at both a local and national level. They will also inform the police reform agenda, the NPCC Workforce Strategy, and the delivery of the Police Covenant.”