Federation continues funding for Welfare Support Programme
24 October 2022
West Midlands Police Federation has described the Welfare Support Programme (WSP) as a “vital resource for members”.
Dave Hadley, a branch discipline lead and WSP liaison officer, said that the programme – which offers a wide range of confidential and independent services from clinical assessments to counselling with fully trained and accredited professionals – was “a lifeline”.
He was speaking after the Police Federation of England and Wales announced its funding for the programme had been extended for another year.
Dave said: “The Welfare Support Programme is a vital resource for members and I’m delighted that it’s going to be available for at least another 12 months.
“Our members are only human and obviously some will be affected by pressures at work and at home.
“At work, officers face unique challenges in their role that can see them repeatedly exposed to traumatic incidents.
“And away from work, we’re emerging from the pandemic into a cost of living crisis, both of which can impact their emotional wellbeing.
“This is where the Welfare Support Programme can be a lifeline for members who are struggling with their mental and emotional wellbeing.”
He added: “If you are struggling, don’t suffer in silence. Speak to your Federation and we can help you get the support you need.”
Tim Rogers, branch secretary, has also praised the programme, saying that in the last year alone he had referred 10 officers to the scheme and that members gave good feedback on the support received.
“The Federation put the Welfare Support Programme in place to fill the gap left by forces’ inability to provide adequate occupational health despite their clear obligation to look after the wellbeing of their officers and staff.
“It was anticipated that the programme would be temporary measure and forces would step up but instead the Federation has continued to make a growing financial commitment to the scheme some six years after it was first set up.”
The programme has been run by Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS) since December 2020. An independent charity, DMWS provides medical welfare to the armed forces, veterans, NHS staff and emergency services.
Nationwide more than 500 members have received timely and ongoing mental health support through DMWS, and the Federation has announced it’s continuing to work with the charity until at least December 2023.
The Welfare Support Programme provides:
- Practical and mental support
- Clinical assessments and dedicated counselling
- Person-centred support (via telephone or face-to-face)
- Access to fully trained and accredited professionals
- Independent and confidential support
- Referrals to appropriate follow-on specialist support.
The Federation has received testimonials from members who have been supported by DMWS.
“That kind of support is priceless, and I count myself as being very lucky to have been provided with such help and support from such an amazing charity,” said one member, adding: “I want it to be known what a difference it has made to me – especially when I have felt unsupported by others.”
Find out more by contacting the West Midlands Police Federation branch officials or workplace reps.
