PARENT MENTAL HEALTH
levels. As we examine the mental health landscape, it is crucial to recognise and address these stressors to foster the wellbeing of police officer parents. The impact of the police officer- parent dual role extends beyond the individual, influencing family members and dynamics. Children may struggle with the absence of a parent during critical moments, while spouses navigate the challenges of managing a household alone. Striking a balance becomes a delicate art, requiring open communication and mutual understanding. Some officer parents share
to navigate their dual roles with reassurance of support and reduce even the fear of becoming parents due to their occupation, which should never be a hindrance.
As we consider and acknowledge the sometimes complex and difficult interplay of parenthood and policing, it becomes evident the mental health of police officer parents is a crucial,
stress of a unique job such as policing, with exposure to severe and regular trauma, can create a very delicate balance for parents in a 24/7 role on and off duty.
“It is all our responsibility to ensure those
strategies that have helped them maintain a sense of normality, such as establishing consistent routines and making the most of quality time when available. Recognising the unique challenges faced by police officer parents, establishing robust support systems is imperative. Police chiefs and staff associations can play a pivotal role in promoting mental health awareness, offering counselling services, and implementing family-friendly policies. External organisations and communities can also contribute by providing resources and creating a network of understanding. By building resilience through collective support, we can empower police officer parents
who protect the public are equipped, not only for their duty on the streets, but also for the complex and sometimes stressful duty they hold within their own homes.”
yet often overlooked, aspect of their lives. By acknowledging the challenges, understanding the stressors, and promoting support systems, we pave the way for a healthier, more resilient policing community. It is all our responsibility to ensure those who protect the public are equipped, not only for their duty on the streets, but also for the complex and sometimes stressful duty they hold within their own homes. Parents show great self-sacrifice and sometimes self-neglect in dealing with the complexities that naturally present themselves when bringing up children. But combining this with the high risk/
It is right that we as PFEW ensure this is not overlooked. I would also encourage a thought to those who parent the parents. As we advance in life, many of us witness slow decline and degeneration of the ones who brought us into this world, and often a role reversal takes place. Many of us I know are silent about these struggles and the emotional journey which stays with us for the rest of
our days, yet we as cops are expected to hold those up and become that pillar of strength and resilience. Recognition and support for these
areas is as vital as any other level of support we offer, and the importance should never be overlooked.
Please contact your local Fed rep at
www.polfed.org/about-us/contact-us to find out if your force has a Parent Support Group.
Oscar Kilo offer resources for family members of those who work in the police at
www.oscarkilo.org.uk
13 | POLICE | FEBRUARY | 2024
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