Welsh Lead urging Welsh forces to utilise Op Hampshire resource

10 August 2023

Welsh Lead Nicky Ryan is urging Welsh forces to take action on trauma by using the Operation Hampshire app and signing up for the latest trauma training.  

Nicky says it’s imperative that forces use the free trauma reporting app which was rolled out last year as part of a wider Op Hampshire programme, led by National Police Wellbeing Service, Oscar Kilo. 

The app enables simple and consistent recording of incidents of assault against officers and staff. 

Nicky explained: “We already record details of assault incidents but the app allows us to capture the relevant details quickly and it means the data recorded is consistent. It also provides a greater understanding of the levels of violence used against our officers and staff and therefore provides a clear overview which will help identify specific issues and provide an evidence base to make decisions and support forces. 

“But there is strength in numbers. We need all the Welsh forces adopting and using the app to be able to maximise its huge benefits and provide a national picture of police assaults.”  

Nicky also says forces should be adopting the latest Op Hampshire trauma training, a course which is now available to all officers via their force’s intranet. 

She added: “Physical assault is not something we should accept as ‘part of the job’. All assaults, regardless of severity, have an impact of some kind so forces need to know how best to support officers and staff.” 

Op Hampshire was set up to change the culture in forces in relation to supporting officers and staff and, in particular, reacting to individuals’ needs.  

Nicky continued: “Op Hampshire does not suggest implementing special measures for police victims; it simply provides a structure to ensure we get the basics right for our colleagues as the people who serve and protect the public. It’s about getting the right support in terms of impact, investigation, longer-term wellbeing, victim care and response. 

“There is a great deal of work currently being done to protect and support colleagues but forces must make the most of this work and the options that are now available.  

“The police service is under more pressure and scrutiny than ever and forces must respond by taking care of officers and staff. That is the priority.” 

For more information on the trauma training course contact: Rachel Joint at enquiries@melearning.co.uk / 01273 499 100. Or contact the Oscar Kilo team at contact@oscarkilo.org.uk.