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lines to the right of the URL bar at the top of your browserThe lifestyle and culture of police and public safety work impacts more than just the employee.
Family members may be exposed to stressors from the employee’s role in the agency and may also need support themselves to respond to the unique challenges they and their loved one face on and off the job. Therefore, it is important that family members are provided with information regarding the agency’s available mental health services.
When employees feel that their family needs are met, their wellness, and ability to do their job improves.
What your department can do
- Agencies can hold regular “family days” — loosely structured events that provide a chance for family members to learn more about the employee’s job assignment through shadowing opportunities, be exposed to other agency functions, and meet agency EAP providers, psychological services personnel, peer support personnel, and chaplains. Tours of the department are also a good idea so family members can visualize where their loved ones are going each day.
- Departments can also offer family in-services that can focus on a number of factors. This may include helping children understand the job and demands of being a police officer, financial planning and budget basics for the family, offering fun family events such as a new employee night, department game or movie nights, department family picnic in the park event, or take your child to work day event.
- Departments could research and develop a library of materials for families and develop a family resource center.
- Another important program that could be implemented is a public safety family support group. Families of a law enforcement officer or firefighter can find benefit from communicating with peers who understand the unique challenges of a career in the public safety or emergency service field. A support group can help build connections and provide resources for family members and friends.
- In addition, spouses, partners, parents, and children of those serving in a public safety or emergency service role play an important part, serving as an essential support system to the employee. As part of family trainings or in-services, emphasis should also be given to encourage families to recognize warning signs in the employee and to provide encouragement for family members to speak up to the employee and/or employer when warning signs are recognized. The saying “See Something, Say Something” applies here. Family members have an important role as they typically are the first ones to recognize changes in their loved one and can play an influential role in early intervention.
Your next step
The International Association of Chiefs of Police has a customizable guide available for use in your department.