On the 6th of August uniformed staff will be taking part in a charity challenge outside Broad Street offices to raise money for 3 charities close to the hearts of our staff and their families. Staff will be climbing ladders the height of Mount Everest, cycling 100 miles and rowing distance to be confirmed.

Each of these charities support the mental health and wellbeing is of our staff. Blue light staff work in dangerous and stressful environments, dealing with some of the most challenging social problems. Employees can be faced with traumatic situations which can result in their health and wellbeing coming under direct threat.

As we are coming out the end of the Covid-19 pandemic we are also very aware of the affects this has had on our staff. Research by Mind UK showed that:

- 69% of emergency responders feel their mental health has deteriorated as a result of the pandemic.

- Increased workloads and more exposure to traumatic events were cited as key reasons why mental health has gotten worse throughout the pandemic.

- 87% of our respondents said that not being able to see friends or family during the pandemic has impacted on their mental health.

Therefore the work that these charities are doing to supporting our staff and their families is more important than ever.