South Wales Police Federation members are being encouraged to help provide a clearer picture of the realities of policing by taking part in the National Workforce and Wellbeing Survey.
The survey, coordinated through Oscar Kilo, the National Police Wellbeing Service, gathers anonymous feedback on issues including wellbeing, workload, leadership, workplace culture and support.
The findings help inform national policy and local initiatives which aim to improve police welfare and wellbeing.
The survey is open now and closes on 22 June.
Branch chair Phil Walker
South Wales Police Federation chair Phil Walker said: “Our members regularly tell us about the pressures they face, and this survey is a chance for us to highlight those experiences to policing leaders and decision makers.
“Every response helps paint a more accurate picture of what life in policing is really like.
“Whether your concerns relate to workload, wellbeing, resources or workplace culture, this is your chance to be heard.
Burn out
“The stronger the response rate, the stronger the message to those decision makers.”
More than 40,000 officers took part in last year’s survey, creating one of the most comprehensive snapshots of workforce wellbeing in policing.
Among the key findings:
- 45 per cent of respondents said they often felt burnt out
- 55 per cent reported experiencing persistent physical fatigue
- 60 per cent said they struggled to take sufficient breaks during their working day
- One in three respondents had experienced a physical assault during the previous 12 months
- More than half of those who experienced discrimination said they had not reported it
Among respondents:
- 80 per cent said their team worked together effectively to get the job done
- 81 per cent felt trusted in their role
- 89 per cent expressed confidence in their skills and abilities
- 67 per cent said they remained proud of the work they do
Andy Rhodes, Oscar Kilo service director, added: “Last year, more than 40,000 people across policing took the time to tell us what the job really feels like. That mattered – and it has already led to real action.
“The findings have helped shape national wellbeing work, informed reform discussions, and supported deeper work on issues like psychological safety, fatigue and the drivers of wellbeing.
National Survey
“This year’s survey builds on that progress. The new name – the National Police Workforce and Wellbeing Survey – reflects something important: wellbeing does not sit on its own. It is shaped by workload, leadership, team culture and the way organisations support their people day to day.”
Chief Constable Sir Andy Marsh, College of Policing chief executive, added: “Policing is a job like no other. We ask a great deal of our people who do it, often in demanding, unpredictable and deeply challenging circumstances.
“This is why we must listen carefully to those on the frontline. This survey gives officers and staff the opportunity to speak honestly about their experiences of working in policing and helps leaders better understand what support colleagues need to do their best work.
“The stronger our understanding, the better placed we are to shape workplaces which are healthier, more supportive and more effective.”
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