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Since last Monday, forces have been contending with violent unrest, including attacks on officers with glass bottles, flares, and bricks. In response, additional wellbeing support and resources are being provided to assist police officers and staff.
The National Police Wellbeing Service, Oscar Kilo, has dispatched wellbeing vans to Merseyside Police and other forces. The vans provide rest and respite for officers responding to the disorder.
Additionally, the College of Policing has made a new e-book available that helps police officers and staff to talk to their children about the job. ‘The Red Robber Raid’ story provides an intimate look into the sacrifices made by those who serve and protect our communities. The e-book is designed to engage young minds while educating them about the realities of policing life in a manner that is gentle and relatable.
Hard copies of the book have already been distributed to more than 1,700 policing families.
“I’m both angry and saddened that some of my colleagues are recovering from injuries including broken bones and cuts. I’ve seen the impact of such assaults and know that officers go to work to protect communities. It is both outrageous and unacceptable that they’ve been pelted by bottles, bricks and flares. While they wear a uniform, officers are people like everyone else, and I’ve no doubt children will this morning be asking why mummy and daddy are hurt.
“Explaining to your families the need to do overtime and missing significant events is difficult enough. But to return home from work with broken bones, bruises and cuts is traumatic for the officers and their loved ones. The College of Policing’s National Police Wellbeing Service, Oscar Kilo, has resources and tools to help colleagues navigate these difficult conversations.
“Wounds and bones will heal but I know from my time in policing that the impact of being assaulted is cumulative and sometimes more damaging than the actual injury. The College is speaking with forces to ensure we can support as much as possible with officer wellbeing.”
Sir Andy Marsh, College of Policing Chief Constable.
Oscar Kilo provides further support for families and a bespoke wellbeing toolkit. It can also directs offers in need of extra support to the best place.
To read more on how emergency service leaders have called for an end to violence as the frontline continues to deal with far right clashes, click here.