Mayor told to review support for retired officers

The London Assembly backed a Conservative motion calling on the Mayor and the Metropolitan Police Service to review the mental health support it gives to retired police officers.

Shaun Bailey, who proposed the motion, commented: "Every day London’s brave police officers put themselves at risk to protect all of us. It’s shameful that they are increasingly being abused and assaulted for doing their job and keeping our city safe.

“The injuries and mental health issues that affect police officers do not disappear when they retire. A recent survey of retired officers revealed that nearly a quarter thought they were suffering from PTSD and nearly 85% said they had not been offered or accessed support. This simply isn’t good enough. The Mayor needs to ensure there is support in place for officers long after they have left service.

“Londoners are eternally grateful for police officer’s courage and sacrifice, so it’s only right that the Mayor and the Met have a plan in place to help retired officers. That’s why I tabled today’s motion in the London Assembly calling on the Mayor and Metropolitan Police Service to review their support for retired police officers.”

The full text of the amended motion is:

This Assembly is thankful to police officers, past and present, for the work they do in keeping London safe and appreciates the risk they face every day. This Assembly further recognises that injuries and mental health issues faced by police officers do not disappear when they retire. Therefore, this Assembly calls upon the Mayor and the Metropolitan Police Service to review the support it gives to retired police officers and to come back with a plan on how to help those who need it.

Furthermore, this Assembly commits to working towards eradicating the stigma associated with talking about mental health and wellbeing in London, to ensure that all Londoners can discuss their mental health without fear of repercussions.