Police chiefs are grappling with a significant “wellbeing crisis,” with over half confessing to lower morale levels compared to a year ago. A survey conducted among police superintendents and chief superintendents from 49 forces revealed alarmingly low levels of morale and motivation within the leadership ranks.
The survey findings, released on World Mental Health Day, indicated that 66% of respondents described morale within their forces as low, with 52% stating that their morale had decreased over the past year. Only half of police leaders reported high personal motivation, marking the lowest figure in the survey’s eight-year history.
Furthermore, the survey highlighted that just 38% of respondents felt valued, with three in ten expressing that they would not recommend a career in policing to others. Nine out of ten participants stated that they do not feel respected by the government.
Nick Smart, the chairman of the Police Superintendents Association (PSA), has emphasised the urgent need for tailored support for police leaders and comprehensive wellbeing packages for officers at all levels. He stressed that the survey results provide undeniable proof of a consistent decline in police morale.
Smart called for an end to the inconsistent provision of support services for officers facing challenges, emphasising the need for a universal and reliable wellbeing support system for all police personnel. He highlighted the risks involved in policing and underscored that officers should be guaranteed well-resourced support when needed.
A recent study undertaken by the College of Policing examined psychological risk assessments for superintendents in nine police forces. The results revealed that superintendents are at the highest risk of experiencing psychological harm within the policing hierarchy. Despite higher levels of stress, burnout, and depression among superintendents, they were less likely to take sick leave compared to other ranks.
In response to these findings, the PSA has presented recommendations to bodies like the National Police Chiefs Council, Home Office, and the College of Policing. These include advocating for well-equipped occupational health services in all forces, increased funding for the National Police Wellbeing Service, and regular psychological risk assessments for all ranks, with tailored action plans for at-risk officers.
Efforts are being made to address the pressing issue of declining morale and wellbeing among police chiefs, with calls for systemic improvements and better support mechanisms within the policing sector. The government has been approached for comment on the matter.