We are pleased to introduce this new workforce prioritisation guidance. This comprehensive document is the culmination of over a decade of research and engagement. It brings everything together into once place so police forces can provide excellent wellbeing support.
What is the Workforce Prioritisation Guidance?
Background
In 2013, the national wellbeing and engagement working group was established to address the wellbeing needs of over 200,000 police officers and staff. Years of research and employee voice surveys have provided critical insights into the physical and mental health challenges faced by our workforce.
The National Police Wellbeing Service was launched in 2019 to offer targeted support, and the new Workforce Prioritisation Guidance is our latest step in this ongoing commitment.
It has been developed following consultation with stakeholders across policing, who have been seeking clarity and consistency in this space so everyone is clear on prioritisation and affordability. The guidance has its roots in high profile projects such as the Frontline Review, the Officer and Staff Safety Review and is grounded in research and practice from leading experts in the UK and abroad. We also see it as a foundation for the Police Covenant into the future.
Aims and Purpose
The guidance aims to provide clarity on how police forces should structure their wellbeing strategies and identify priority interventions that create the greatest impact on the ground. It serves as a practical, accessible resource that consolidates research findings, employee feedback, and best practices from the last decade.
Key components
- Evidence-based wellbeing strategy: Clear direction on delivering a scalable, high-quality, and affordable wellbeing strategy.
- Priority activities: Identification of activities proven to improve the wellbeing of police officers and staff.
- Universal and role-specific support: Guidance on universal wellbeing activities available to all staff, alongside tailored support for specific roles.
Implementation
The guidance emphasises a proactive, whole-system approach to wellbeing, focusing on prevention rather than crisis response.
It outlines essential components such as the Blue Light Wellbeing Framework, Operation Hampshire, occupational health standards, peer support networks, and strategies to address fatigue and trauma.
Commitment to wellbeing
This guidance is part of our ongoing effort to demonstrate our commitment to the wellbeing of those who serve in policing. It is designed to assist forces in investing wisely, becoming intelligent customers in the wellbeing marketplace, and ensuring that the health and safety of police officers and staff is prioritised.
It will be gradually introduced to forces through a series of stakeholder and force level engagement sessions from October 2024.
If you would like to know more about the Workforce Prioritisation Guidance, please get in touch with us using the Contact Form.