Over the past month, and as we have moved through the first weeks of 2026, Thin Blue Line UK has been contacted almost every single day by police officers from across the country seeking help, guidance, and emotional support. Some officers have reached out following the devastating loss of a colleague to suicide, whilst others have told us that they are struggling under the relentless strain the job continually places on them. As a charity dedicated to supporting police wellbeing, we are always here for every officer. However, this sudden rise in calls for help is a sign that something deeper, and far more urgent is happening across UK policing.

This week marks a significant moment for policing reform nationally. Conversation is once again centred on performance, leadership and collaboration. Of course, these topics matter, but reform cannot succeed without strong foundations—looking after the officers and staff who protect and support our communities every day.

Police wellbeing is not optional. It is essential.

Our Trustee, Bev Adamson, reflected on the current situation... “We are reassured by the fact that officers feel able to seek help, but we cannot ignore that this points to a wider and more urgent problem. As the country prepares for a major week of policing reform, the focus is largely on performance and collaboration, but for us real reform must start at the foundations. Police wellbeing is not optional... it is essential”.

The rising number of officers contacting the charity echoes what many across policing are feeling today.

One serving officer, who wished to remain anonymous, shared a heartbreaking account with us this past week “I lost a close colleague to suicide this last week. It really is becoming too common, and I know of four other colleagues who have taken their own lives in the last 12 months. For me it is becoming too common. I feel angry, helpless, and know things must change… how can an industry allow this to happen to the people who are supposed to keep us all safe”?

This officer’s words reflect a growing frustration and heartbreak felt across policing, underscoring the urgent need for change.

Back in September 2025, our Trustee Andrea publicly asked senior leaders and politicians a difficult but necessary question:

“Is it time to call the mental health crisis in policing… a Critical Incident?”

Tragically, since that moment, and across many previous years, very little has changed.

And more officers have been lost.

Today, we are sharing a moving and deeply affecting video created by Adam from The Squad. His compassionate portrayal of police suicides brings vital attention to a topic too often hidden from public view.

We were profoundly struck by the honesty and care that went into the video, and we are grateful to Adam for shining this light at a time when it is desperately needed.

• Our officers wear the uniform.
  
• They answer the call.
  
• But too often, no one answers theirs.
  

Recent figures highlight the scale of the wellbeing crisis:

• 360 officers have died by suicide since 2011 — though the true figure is likely higher.

• 1 in 5 officers show symptoms of PTSD.

• 17,700 officers were signed off for mental health reasons in 2024–25, a 22% increase in just one year.

• 45% report frequent burnout, and 55% report persistent physical fatigue.

• Mental health issues are a factor in 75% of officers considering leaving the job.

• 93% say their mental health has worsened because of policing.

These are not just statistics ... They are warnings ... They are lives ... And their voices and those around them must be heard.

Strength Should Never Mean Suffering Alone ... Laughter can hide pain ... Silence can hide despair.

At Thin Blue Line UK, our message to any officer who is struggling is simple ... You are not in this alone.

We offer a wide range of free help, advice and experiences ... including access to our fully funded wellbeing retreats.

We also offer free and confidential access to our THRIVE Mental Health & Wellbeing App, which provides:

• Practical, evidence based tools for difficult moments

• 24/7 online access to professional counsellors

• Confidential support specifically designed for policing

If you need help, please contact us. And if you’re concerned about a colleague, encourage them to reach out too.

You can reach out for support by clicking HERE.