Force wellbeing dogs scheme runner up for national award

Our team of dogs and their handlers who support the wellbeing of officers and staff were nominated for four national awards.

To help with the wellbeing of our officers and staff who are often exposed to traumatic and difficult situations, we have implemented the OK9 Wellbeing Dog scheme.

The scheme was nominated as part of the National Police Wellbeing Scheme’s Oscar Kilo Awards 2024, and we’re proud to announce that on 6 December the OK9 team were named a runner-up for Team of the Year.

Interaction with dogs has been shown to help alleviate symptoms of stress and anxiety, and they can also create a good excuse for officers to talk with the dog handlers about any recent experiences.

The OK9 dogs and their handlers (who are trained peer supporters) are available for officers and staff at Warwickshire Police to book a visit when they need support.

You can read more about the Oscar Kilo Awards and other schemes to support police wellbeing on their website – www.oscarkilo.org.uk/news/national-police-wellbeing-awards-celebrate-pioneering-wellbeing-work