10 December 2020

Dyfed Powys Police Federation secretary Roger Webb is urging members not to “suffer in silence” if they’re worried about their finances this Christmas.

Roger is encouraging officers who have money worries to open up or to seek help for the good of their own mental health.

“Money and mental health are connected,” Roger said. “Worrying about your money issues can have a detrimental impact on your mental health and wellbeing.

“And the pressure of Christmas and trying to have a special time, particularly this year given what we’ve all experienced, can be huge and spending can easily get out of hand.

“Sorting it out might feel overwhelming but it’s no good keeping it all bottled up, that won’t help anyone. We’re here to support you and to point you in the direction of help.

“There’s no shame in seeking help, in fact, it can be the most positive step you take; the first step to taking back control of your finances.”

Visit the Police Federation website for organisations that can help if you’re worried about your finances, or speak to a Fed rep.

Police Mutual has also produced a series of leaflets with advice on taking control of your finances this Christmas.

Hayley Aley, chair of the national Federation’s wellbeing sub-committee, meanwhile, has published a blogabout the mental health impact of financial worries.

Hayley said: “I have been there myself – as a student officer I was a single parent and had sleepless nights worrying about money. If only I knew then what I know now. There is no shame in admitting to others that times are hard – asking for help and support is the most positive thing you can do, not least for your own mental health and wellbeing.

“Money worries can eat away at you – cause you to feel depressed, isolated, destroy your confidence, relationships at work and home, interfere with your family time – the list goes on.

“We want to help you manage your financial stress and we will be shining the light on where to get help and support – keep an eye on our website, social media channels and look out for the next edition of POLICE magazine.

“Some officers who have struggled financially have offered to share their stories and we will be publishing these this month.

“I have no doubt their experiences will resonate with many - inspire and give hope that there is a way through these difficult times.”

Hayley added: “Many officers worry about admitting that they are in financial difficulty for fear of jeopardising their job.

“The truth is that declaring your financial situation to professional standards can alleviate that vulnerability – again a positive step towards getting back on track.

“And don’t forget that you can reach out to your local rep or branch to support you with that too.”

Find out more about the Federation’s mental wellbeing campaign Hear ‘Man Up’, Think ‘Man Down’.