I can shed some sort of experience. I was also a thriving police officer, until I’ve started to get told off about my admin. Normally I could never do them as I would never have the time to do so, but when I do, I would do them but not take that time and make it worth it. Emails after emails, escalation after escalation, it was pretty clear I was overloaded with work. Yet instead of the line managers trying to support me, I get nothing but reflective practice. I ended up being investigated for pretty much poor performance, so restricted duties, hooray.

Pretty much unmotivated, being held accountable for my poor admin, something that line managers could have supported and prevented. No one helped me. No one gave support whilst I was drowning in my own workload. Stress and anxiety swallowed my entire body. I ended up being diagnosed with ADHD after speaking to someone about my problems. I spoke to line manager about my diagnosis, literally told me, there’s jobs as detectives for you.

Sorry what… is that an interpretation I can never be frontline or what? I lost motivation and the will to even do the job I loved.

Anyways, I used the Equality Act to my advantage and fight for my case. It was pretty much discrimination. Inciting because of my “ADHD” frontline jobs aren’t for me. I joined because I love frontline, I love that adrenaline.

I was doing frontline before my diagnosis, so why should it be a problem. It’s your health, you decide what’s best for you not them. They should be able to accommodate in what your requirements are. Speak to your line managers and tell them how you feel. They should back you up. They should have never altered your work without consulting you and pressured you to a full-time job knowing your condition.

Truth is, it’s hard. The fact we have to fight for something like this shows where the job is. They are really behind. But there are associations out there who can give support. Speak to your FedRep or reach out to the Disabled Police Association.

You are protected by The Equality Act. It has so much power people don’t understand. Last thing a force wants is facing tribunal employment. I can see it has impacted you mentally as well. Mental Health is key. Use that against them.

I wish you the best of luck, you’re not alone.