Force launches 'trauma tracker' to support officer wellbeing
Avon and Somerset Constabulary has unveiled Trauma Tracker, one of the UK’s first fully automated trauma exposure tracking systems and a major step forward in proactively supporting the wellbeing of police officers and staff.
Developed to strengthen the ability to understand and respond to traumatic incidents, the system is set to play a transformative role in ensuring that officers and staff are supported, enabling them to deliver the best possible service to the public and keeping our communities safe.
The tracker has been developed by Inspector Stuart King KPM. Now in his 23rd year of policing, he has witnessed the profound impact that exposure to traumatic events can have on those serving the public.
Inspector King said: “Our officers and staff routinely face traumatic, challenging and often life‑changing incidents with complete dedication. To support them, we have developed innovative technology that tracks exposure to traumatic events over time, ensuring that those who look after our communities receive the support they need, when they need it.
“The Trauma Tracker is the latest example of how Avon and Somerset Police is leading the way in using technology to improve policing. By automating the monitoring of traumatic incidents and investigations, we are shining a light on the pressures our people experience and providing tailored support based on clear, informed insight.”
The tracker automatically draws information from multiple data sources, including up to 20 years of crime and investigation data and six years of incident data, to provide a more complete picture of potential trauma exposure. Its development has been shaped by an 18-month scrutiny process led by a Trauma Informed Steering Group, and informed by the Police Federation, Unison, and nearly 300 frontline trialists. This has ensured the tool reflects real policing experience and the needs of those who will use it.
Communications Supervisor Daisy Davison, said: “Trauma Tracker has helped me and my team understand the cumulative impact of the 999 calls we handle every day. It’s opened up conversations we might not otherwise have had and given us a clearer sense of when we need to pause, reflect and reach out.”
The launch aligns with the recently published Policing White Paper, which calls for every police force in England and Wales to implement trauma tracking solutions as part of the National Police Health and Wellbeing Strategy.