World Mental Health Day: helping to break down mental health barriers
10 October 2025
The branch is using World Mental Health Day (Friday 10 October) to encourage members to check in with themselves.
It is reminding members that support is there if they are feeling overwhelmed or experiencing emotional difficulties.
A spokesperson for the branch said: “Mental health challenges are not a sign of weakness but part of being human – and they can affect anyone.
“Indeed, policing is now the profession with the highest mental health-related sickness rates.
“There is still some stigma around mental health in policing and officers, who see themselves as the helpers, seeking their own help.
“But events like World Mental Health Day are helping to change that and to break down barriers.
“I would encourage members to use the day to check in with themselves and understand how they’re feeling.”
Issues impacting members’ mental health are highlighted in this year’s West Mercia Police Federation’s Pay and Morale Survey:
Low morale
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Almost three out of five respondents said their morale was ‘low’ or ‘very low’
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92 per cent felt morale in the Force was ‘low’ or ‘very low’
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One in five said they intended to quit policing. The most frequently cited reasons were morale (90 per cent) and the impact of the job on their mental health and wellbeing 77 per cent)
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67 per cent said over the last 12 months, their workload has been too high or much too high
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45 per cent said they find their job very or extremely stressful.
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82 per cent indicated they had experienced feelings of stress, low mood, anxiety, or other difficulties with their health and wellbeing over the last 12 months
The Copped Enough campaign has been launched by the Police Federation of England and Wales.
It is calling for better protection and mental health support so officers don’t suffer in silence.
The spokesperson continued: “The Copped Enough campaign highlights the realities of policing, of rising assaults, traumatic incidents, and increasing workloads.
“This can all take its toll, as can the issues in our everyday lives.
Mental health support
“As a Federation we will continue to fight for improved pay and conditions, and better mental health support.
“But we also need to take steps to look after ourselves, such as eating well, exercising, and getting plenty of sleep.
“And if you are feeling low, please reach out. Talk to a Federation rep, a trusted colleague, or your line manger.
“It’s okay to not be okay."
Support services available:
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Mental Health Crisis Line (24/7) designed for police officers and staff: 0300 131 2789
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Samaritans (24/7): 116 123
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National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK (available 6pm to midnight every day): 0800 689 5652
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Mind’s Blue Light Infoline: 0300 303 5999
