Mind launches mental health toolkit

12 April 2021

National mental health charity Mind has launched an online toolkit designed specifically to support police officers and other emergency service workers during the ongoing pandemic.

Sitting under the charity’s Blue Light Programme, the toolkit aims to provide emergency workers with advice and information on mental health during the coronavirus crisis and beyond.

Mind research has shown that two thirds of police staff believe their mental health had got worse – and in many cases, much worse – since the start of the pandemic. 

In addition to the new demands of the job, two thirds of police said they were concerned about passing coronavirus on to their friends and family, and 42 per cent said their mental health was affected by news and media coverage. A third of emergency services staff said they didn’t look for help because they didn’t think their issues were serious enough.

West Mercia Police Federation chair Sarah Cooper has welcomed Mind’s initiative.

“Policing can be challenging and demanding during normal times, let alone when we’re in the middle of a pandemic so it’s not at all surprising that officers are struggling,” she explained.

“The important thing is, Mind is working hard with the emergency services to ensure those who need it receive the required support. Talking about mental health is nothing to be ashamed of and I would encourage officers and police staff to take a look at the Blue Light Programme, not only for themselves but also because it may help them reach out to their families, friends and colleagues too.

“Of course, I hope that all members know that the Federation is always here if they need help too.”

The new toolkit will help police officers manage their mental health, take care of themselves and also encourage them to reach out to family, friends and colleagues who might be struggling.   

The toolkit, which will build on Mind’s existing support for emergency service workers, will evolve based on feedback from the police community, and the charity will be adding new resources and sources of help when they become available throughout the year.

For more information on the Blue Light Programme and the toolkit, along with advice and support, visit the Mind website.