The chair of South Wales Police Federation is encouraging members to “do one thing” to help look after their own and others’ mental health on World Mental Health Day.

Steve Treharne said: “Days like this are a great reminder that we can all be doing more to look after our own mental health and wellbeing.

“It doesn’t need to be something huge or deeply involved – it can be as simple as taking five minutes to check in on a colleague having a tough time, or looking up what provision the Federation offers for mental health so you’re informed in case you need it.”

World Mental Health Day is on Sunday (October 10).

Steve’s call is inspired by Mind’s “Do One Thing” campaign, which is also encouraging blue light services to “do one thing” to promote better mental health.

Later this autumn, Mind’s Blue Light Programme will run a campaign aimed at challenging the stigma that often prevents emergency services workers from talking about their mental health.

According to the Police Federation of England and Wales’ July 2021 Pay and Morale Survey, 69 per cent of respondents reported they have experienced difficulties with their mental health and wellbeing over the past 12 months, either caused or exacerbated by work.

However, just 22 per cent of them had subsequently sought help.

Find out more about World Mental Health Day.