Research on police wellbeing presented at the Canterbury CC Policing Research Conference

At the Canterbury CC Policing Research Conference in January 2025, Dr. Keely Duddin and Dr. Sarah-Jane Lennie presented research on "Advancing Wellbeing in Policing by Addressing Perinatal Mental Health and Maternity Challenges" on behalf of the wider research team, including Kendal Wright, Fran Wright - The OU and Dr. Krystal Wilkinson from Manchester Metropolitan University. Dr Sarah-Jane Lennie also presented research on "Police Families Wellbeing: A Debt of Gratitude".

Summary of presentation on "Advancing Wellbeing in Policing by Addressing Perinatal Mental Health and Maternity Challenges"

The presentation explored the significant impact of perinatal mental health (PNMH) and maternity-related challenges on policing careers and officer well-being. Drawing on data from nearly 6,000 police employees across 48 UK forces, the study highlighted barriers faced by police employees during pregnancy, maternity leave, and their return to work.

Key findings revealed:

• A lack of awareness and understanding of perinatal mental health, leading to officers feeling unsupported.
• Concerns over stigma preventing individuals from seeking mental health support due to fears of career impact.
• Challenges with flexible working and return-to-work processes, contributing to higher attrition rates and lower engagement.
• Discriminatory attitudes and maternal bias affecting career progression opportunities.

Dr. Duddin and Dr. Lennie emphasised the need for a trauma-informed approach, improved supervisor training, and inclusive HR policies to better support police employees navigating parenthood. Practical recommendations included structured return-to-work pathways, increased awareness of PNMH, and workplace adaptations to retain and support a diverse workforce.

This research contributes to evidence-based policy changes within policing, aiming to enhance officer well-being, promote gender equality, and improve retention rates across UK forces.

Summary of presentation on "Police Families Wellbeing: A Debt of Gratitude"

Dr. Lennie’s presentation explored the College of Policing funded research which is in response to the Police Covenant and focusses on the impact of police work on officers' families, emphasizing mental health, work-life balance, and the need for systemic support.

The Police Covenant & Its Goals

• Aims to ensure that police officers, staff, volunteers, and their families are not disadvantaged due to service.
• Calls for legal accountability, support for transitions out of policing, and improved well-being measures.

1. Findings from Primary Research (Surveys, Focus Groups, Interviews)

• Work/Family Conflict:
  • Police officers’ partners struggle with career sacrifices and mental health burdens.
  • Shift unpredictability disrupts childcare, social life, and self-care.
• Organizational Injustice & Lack of Family Support:
  • Families feel unsupported and undervalued by the police force.
  • Stigma around pregnancy, parental leave, and flexible working.
• Psychological Well-being & Secondary Trauma:
  • Families act as informal counsellors for officers but receive no mental health support themselves.
  • Officers' unaddressed trauma spills over into family dynamics, affecting relationships and children’s development.

2. Support Needs & Recommendations

• Safe Spaces & Social Networks:
  • The loss of police social clubs has isolated families; structured networks are needed.
• In-House Childcare Solutions:
  • Unpredictable shifts make standard childcare arrangements unworkable.
• Family Mental Health Support:
  • Regular therapy for families could ease stress and encourage officers to seek help.

Conclusion

Dr. Lennie highlighted the urgent need for systemic changes to support police families. The Oscar Kilo Families Toolkit and the Police Covenant aim to provide resources, but more recognition and action are needed.

For full research details: Families Wellbeing and Support Needs Report