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POLICE are reporting record numbers of sick leave — with over 4,000 officers absent each day.
Recent figures indicate that 1.63 million officer working days were lost due to illness or injury in the year leading up to March 2025.
This number — the highest on record — represents a nine percent increase in just one year and is nearly 60 percent higher than during the pandemic, when absence levels significantly decreased during lockdowns.
Data released under transparency laws showed that five percent of all working days were lost to sickness .
Sources within the police attribute this situation to overwhelmed forces and the increase in assaults on officers.
The Police Federation has noted rising levels of absenteeism. Greater Manchester Police and Cleveland were the hardest hit, with 6.3 percent of officer time lost.
They were closely followed by South Wales and Sussex.
In contrast, Leicestershire Police reported the lowest rate, at 3.6 percent.
John O’Connell, representing campaigners, stated: “These statistics clearly indicate that Britain’s police forces are overstretched, exhausted, and failing to provide the essential services funded by taxpayers.”
“When five percent of all police time is lost to illness, it’s evident that the system is not functioning properly.”
“Forces must reduce administrative burdens, tackle the sources of stress and burnout, and ensure officers are back on the streets.”
A spokesperson for the Police Federation remarked: “Policing in 2025 is a service that is overwhelming the brave individuals dedicated to protecting communities across the nation daily.”
“Police officers encounter hundreds of traumatic incidents each year, and each incident leaves its impact.”
“With assaults on officers reaching unprecedented levels and the job becoming increasingly hazardous, these statistics are not unexpected.”
“What is alarming is the record number of police officers — nearly 9,000 each year — who resign before the job takes a toll on them.”
“More than 18 officers die by suicide annually. Policing must address its leadership issues and foster healthy workplaces where officers can excel.”
“Poor pay, low morale, and the challenge of working in conditions where every shift runs late and rest days are frequently canceled contribute to sickness absence.”
Police are reporting record levels of sick leave — with more than 4,000 officers absent each dayCredit: Getty
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the current sick leave statistics for police officers?
Over 1.63 million officer working days were lost due to illness or injury in the year leading up to March 2025, with more than 4,000 officers absent each day.
What factors are contributing to the high levels of absenteeism?
Insiders attribute the high absenteeism rates to overstretched forces, increased assaults on officers, poor pay, low morale, and challenging working conditions.
What is the Police Federation's stance on these issues?
The Police Federation emphasizes the need for better leadership, healthier work environments, and addressing the root causes of stress and burnout among officers.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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