The National Police Wellbeing Service, Oscar Kilo, is to roll out the use of trauma support dogs to alleviate mental health issues among officers.
The new national wellbeing and trauma support dogs network aims to make wellbeing dog resources available for as many police forces as possible.
The dogs are accompanied by handlers who are also trained mental health first aiders who listen to people, enable difficult conversations and provide signposting to support if required.
Commenting on the initiative, Sgt Garry Botterill, Oscar Kilo lead for the wellbeing and trauma support dogs, said: “When a dog is introduced into the workplace, the atmosphere immediately changes and people want to interact with him or her.
“During this time together, they share oxytocin, a hormone that engenders affection, trust and a sense of security. It helps naturally lower cortisone levels and in doing so reduces feelings of stress and anxiety.
“The enthusiasm of the people who are championing wellbeing in their home force is absolutely infectious and we are getting superb feedback from all over the country about how effective dogs are at helping colleagues.”
Andy Rhodes, director for the National Police Wellbeing Service, added: “One of the roles of the National Police Wellbeing Service is to support the thriving network of frontline practitioners who, on top of a busy day job, bring great ideas to life.
“The wellbeing and trauma support dogs are a perfect example and we are delighted to help Garry and his team spread the benefits across policing.”