Does Policing Need a Napacino?

[Andy]

Counter intuitive lessons in wellbeing from an officer’s experience of ME/CFS

Who would want to get on a flight knowing that the pilot had not taken a break in the last 8 hours? Who would want to undergo surgery knowing that the surgeon has not had a break? Why then do we think it is appropriate for those in the police to work long hours without a break? In this time of ever increasing pressure on our finite resources policing can no longer afford not to take a break. Breaks boost productivity, wellbeing and ultimately provide a significant return on investment. They prevent mistakes and enhance ethical decision making. But the fact is that it has never been harder for our people to take the breaks that they so desperately need.

Perceptions of Police Breaks

Recent high profile cases in the media have revealed the sometimes hostile attitude of the public and media towards police officers taking a break. A recent article attacked the officers in Plymouth taking a well deserved team break. On occasions the public have also on occasions criticised the police for taking a break as this twitter thread shows:

https://colinpaineramblings.wordpress.com/2019/03/23/does-policing-need-a-napacino/

 

[Roy S]

from that article

"Like many in the service I used to believe I was invincible; “I don’t need to take breaks!” However, since the diagnosis of ME/CFS (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome), which I discussed here, about 18 months ago I now have no choice but to take regular breaks, or face the dire consequences. Balancing activity and rest is called ‘pacing’ in ME/CFS circles; it is something I wish I had learned years ago. Pacing is not just important for those with health challenges – the research shows the value of this approach for all. But pacing for those on the frontline of policing is not easy. Those in leadership positions often have the luxury of managing their time to enable rest breaks; this is luxury unavailable to those on the response frontline."