Chairman's Blog: It is important officers take care of their financial wellbeing this festive season

15 December 2020

Chairman's Blog: It is important officers take care of their financial wellbeing this festive season

“Christmas can be a difficult time of year… please don’t add to that stress by worrying about finances”

In a new blog, Chairman Adam Commons looks at the importance of police officers taking care of their financial wellbeing as we approach the festive season.

And encourages colleagues to seek assistance if they are struggling.

Adam says: “As we approach the final week before Christmas, most of us were probably thankful that it was pay day today.

“It’s the time of year when we may all indulge ourselves and try and make every penny stretch that bit further, especially if you’re buying gifts. I have children and it can be daunting if their present lists include Playstation’s and iPhones.

“But in a year when we have seen so many family’s finances impacted by Covid 19, we are already seeing colleagues struggling financially. We know that there will be no pay rise next September and worrying about money can have a massive impact on mental health and well-being.

“I’ve seen cases where colleagues have used short term loans to get them through the month, but many of these companies charge enormous interest rates and it can get you in a vicious circle of increasing your debt level.

“If you are struggling, please talk about it.

“Start by having a look at the session the National Federation ran last week on Facebook, where they had inputs from companies such as Payplan. You can see it again here https://www.facebook.com/watch/live/?v=854199935330070&ref=watch_permalink

“If you want to talk about it, as with any chat with us ay the Police Federation, it’s completely confidential and we can hopefully point you in the direction of people who can help, including our Force Benevolent fund.

“Christmas can be a difficult time of year if you’re working and away from friends and family or celebrating alone. Please don’t add to that stress by worrying about finances.

“Help is available, please just talk to someone.”