NSW Police: New figures reveal startling number of officers on mental health leave

Startling figures have lifted the lid on the toll mental health is taking on the NSW Police force with almost one in 15 officers away from duties on mental health leave.

Stress is forcing hundreds of NSW police off the street as startling statistics reveal one in 15 officers are away from duties on mental health leave.

The demands of the job are cited as key factors for figures revealing 1108 police officers were on mental health leave as of July 31 this year.

The state’s police union says burnout, exposure to traumatic events and increased workload pressures contribute to mental health issues.

Police Association president Kevin Morton has also warned the “concerning increase” of mental health leave is having operational impacts for officers still on the front line.

“The impact these absences have on the remaining police officers continuing to work the truck day in day out is taking a toll,” he said.

Police Association of NSW president Kevin Morton.

“Police officers will always put the communities they serve first, however, the workload pressures that are currently placed on our first responders is significant.

“Our police officers are feeling burnt out and exhausted – when they put on the blue uniform they are assaulted, spat on and verbally attacked every day and these behaviours are not acceptable.

NSW Police says mental health programs are available for officers.

“We need to do as much as possible to protect and support those who continue to come to work day in, day out.”

Police figures show mental stress has led to an increase in workers compensation claims by officers – rising from 2.89 per 100 employees to 5.3 in the past five years.

Nationals MP and former police minister Paul Toole has accused the current minister Yasmin Catley of inaction.

“The concern is that number will continue go grow and have a flow on effect to other police officers,” Mr Toole said.

NSW Police Minister Yasmin Catley.

“We’ll see burnout of those officers working at stations that are already at 60 per cent staff capacity and that’s ultimately going to have an impact on community safety

“Mental health should be the number one priority but we’re not hearing any new initiatives from the minister about it. We’re just hearing crickets.”

A NSW Police spokesman said the force was committed to supporting officers with “the highest levels of support”.

Police have also introduced a “Pulse Program”, giving officers access to general check-ups, nurses, dietitians and trainers to improve their overall health and wellbeing.

“There is no doubt that the work is challenging and rewarding (and) our aim is always to support our people to get back to the job that they love,” a police spokesman said.

Ms Catley said the government had programs to support the wellbeing of police including mental health clinicians.