Support dog network created to aid officer wellbeing in Wiltshire
It's in a bid to boost mental health among the Force
Officers and staff at Wiltshire Police are being offered mental health support through a new support network.
The OK9 Wellbeing and Trauma Support Dog Network has been set up to help officers exposed to trauma.
The initiative, created by Oscar Kilo, the National Police Wellbeing Service, aims to provide officers some relief from those roles.
There are currently over 150 OK9 Wellbeing dogs across the country, with Wiltshire Police’s Wellbeing dogs adding to that number.
Wellbeing Manager for Wiltshire Police Iain Pettitt said: “Wiltshire Police are committed to supporting the mental health of their officers and staff, and the OK9 Wellbeing & Trauma Support Dog Network is a great way to do this."
Mr Pettitt added that spending time with a dog is a proven method in reducing stress and anxiety.
He continued: "The fact that the network is run by volunteers within the Force, offering their own time and dogs, also highlights the commitment our staff have to supporting each other.”
All OK9 dogs have been fully tested for suitability and handlers have gone through Peer Support training so are able to provide support for any individuals or teams who book visits with the Wellbeing Dogs.