‘Veganuary’: Are you ready to try something new in 2025?

30 December 2024

The turn of the year is often a time when people decide to make changes to their lifestyle.

It could be to improve their health, to make a difference to the environment, or to cut back on expenditure.

West Mercia Police Federation chair Steve Butler, who has been vegan for four years, is encouraging members to consider trying something new in 2025 by participating in ‘Veganuary’, an annual event that encourages people to eat a plant-based diet during January.

“The increasing pressures on police officers mean that it’s more important than ever for our members to look after their wellbeing through exercise and nutrition,” says Steve.

The branch’s most recent Pay and Morale Survey found that 85 per cent of respondents from West Mercia Police indicated they had experienced feelings of stress, low mood, anxiety, or other difficulties with their health and wellbeing over the last 12 months.

Almost half (47 per cent) said they find their job ‘very’ or ‘extremely’ stressful.

More than seven out of 10 (71 per cent) said their overall physical health was ‘good’ or ‘very good’.

And figures released earlier this year showed that 284 officers in West Mercia were off work in the 2023-24 financial year due to mental ill-health.

The figures, revealed by Police Oracle via a Freedom of Information Act request, were up from 229 the previous year.

West Mercia Police Federation chair Steve Butler.

Steve said: “Policing is still a fantastic job but our members face challenges like no other and it can have its impact on physical and mental health.

“The Federation continues to campaign on pay and conditions on behalf of our members, and we know it’s a key issue affecting officers’ health and wellbeing.

“But we can also take steps to look after ourselves.

“I understand the time pressures and demands on officers, but the physical and mental health benefits of regular exercise are well documented which is why I will always encourage members to try to make time for their fitness.”

Veganuary

Steve is also a vegan and highlighted Veganuary, which is growing in popularity. Veganuary is an event that encourages people to eat a plant-based diet during January.

Steve has been vegan for four years and says there are benefits to individual health and to the environment.

“The nutritional side was massive for me,” he said. “I feel a lot healthier and a lot calmer.

“And when people talk about the climate and protecting the environment, the production of plant-based foods uses fewer resources and produces far fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

“I gave up meat and dairy and feel I am doing as much as I can do to protect the future generations.”

He added: “The New Year is traditionally a time when people make lifestyle changes, and even the smallest changes can have a big impact.”

Vegan friendly

Five foods you might not know are vegan friendly.

Are you thinking of trying Veganuary in the New Year, or are you vegan who is looking for some ideas? Here are some popular foods and brands that you may not know are vegan:

Cadbury’s hot chocolate: Unlike many instant hot chocolates, Cadbury’s original does not contain powdered milk and so is vegan-friendly.
Doritos: For a savoury snack, consider tucking into Chilli Heatwave or Lightly Salted Doritos - both are vegan and deliciously tasty.
Some of the country’s favourite biscuits: Fancy a dunky biscuit with your morning tea or coffee? Then most brands of bourbon biscuits are vegan, as are brands like Oreo’s original, Fox’s party rings, and even McVities plain Hobnobs.
Haribos Rainbow Laces: If you’re looking for a sweet fix, then check out Haribos Rainbow Laces - unlike many other Haribos sweets, they don’t contain gelatin.
Breakfast cereals: Such as Weetabix and Shreddies are vegan - served with almond, soy, or oat milk, naturally.

Have you got a New Year’s Resolution? Perhaps you’re thinking about trying something new in 2025? We would love to hear from you. Send us an email: staff@wmpf.polfed.org or let us know via social media by searching for ‘West Mercia Police Federation’.