WELLBEING #ASKTWICE
New PFEW mental health and wellbeing campaign aims to change attitudes in policing
AskTwice, a transformative initiative, was launched by the Police Federation of England and Wales to coincide with May’s Mental Health Awareness Week. Rooted in the desire to foster a culture of positive attitudes towards mental health care and wellbeing within policing, this campaign marks a pivotal step towards reshaping attitudes and practices surrounding mental wellbeing in the workplace. In the demanding
landscape of law enforcement, the welfare of officers often takes a backseat amid the pressures of duty. Compounded by the traditionally male-dominated nature of policing, a pervasive macho culture has historically minimised discussions
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around mental health and wellbeing. The implications of neglecting these essential aspects of officer welfare are profound, leading to increased stress, burnout, and
“AskTwice wants to ensure a more compassionate workplace — one where individuals feel supported and empowered to navigate professional and personal challenges with confidence and resilience.”
even tragedy. Against this backdrop, AskTwice
aims to be a beacon of change, urging officers to pause, reflect, and prioritise their own wellbeing, as well as that of their colleagues. At its core, this initiative
embodies a commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals feel valued, heard, and empowered to seek help when needed. Central to the ethos of AskTwice is the recognition of mental wellbeing as an indispensable component of workplace health and positive policing. Numerous studies have underscored the profound impact of mental health on job performance, absenteeism, and employee retention. In an era where organisations are increasingly cognisant of the link between employee wellbeing and organisational success, AskTwice represents a strategic desire to develop positive wellbeing practices and influence professional performance for all cops. By prioritising mental wellbeing in the workplace, organisations not only demonstrate a commitment to the welfare of their employees but also reap tangible benefits in terms of morale, engagement, and overall productivity. Moreover, fostering a culture that values mental health sends a powerful message to employees that their wellbeing is not only supported but actively encouraged — an essential precursor to creating a psychologically safe and healthy work environment. AskTwice seeks to catalyse a cultural shift within policing, challenging entrenched norms and fostering open dialogue around mental health and wellbeing. By providing a resource of support and guiding assets, this campaign aims to dismantle stigma, increase awareness, and empower individuals to prioritise
their own and their colleagues’ mental wellbeing without fear of judgment or reprisal.
By promoting mental health and wellbeing literacy and providing resilience- building guides and support, AskTwice
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