Encountering traumatic situations is an unavoidable part of the job for police officers, which can take a mental health toll.

The Chatham-Kent Police Service took strides to prioritize the mental, physical and emotional wellbeing of its members by hiring psychotherapist Amanda Blackburn in September 2024 to be its first full-time health and wellness coordinator.

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A year later, the benefits are evident.

Chief Kirk Earley said members still experience trauma, but since Blackburn began her role “we have seen a reduction in our sick time usage.”

He also credits the sick time reduction to hiring more officers to serve in the community.

Blackburn points to taking a proactive approach for the success of the health and wellness program.

“It’s noticing when people are strug

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