The extension of the funding for the Federation’s programme of welfare support for members has been welcomed by South Wales branch chair Steve Treharne.

The Welfare Support Programme offers a wide range of confidential and independent services from clinical assessments to counselling with fully trained and accredited professionals.

Funded by the Police Federation of England and Wales, the programme is run by Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS), an independent charity providing medical welfare to the armed forces, veterans, NHS staff and emergency services.

More than 500 members have received timely and ongoing mental health support since DMWS took over providing the service in December 2020, and the Federation has announced it will continue to fund the programme until at least December 2023.

Steve said: “We welcome the extension of this vital support during what’s been a difficult time for our members.

“We’re living through a cost of living crisis, some of our members will still be dealing with the impact of the pandemic, and then there’s the unique stresses and strains of their role and what they’re exposed to every day.

“Some officers may be struggling with their emotional and mental health so it’s really important they know the Federation is there for them.

“The Welfare Support Programme has already helped hundreds of our members and it’s really pleasing to see the Federation continue to fund it for another 12 months.

“It sends out the message to members that they’re not alone and that the Federation is here for you.”

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 South Wales Police Federation branch or your workplace reps.