Resources 

Supporting our workforce to balance policing with family life is fundamental to retaining
skilled people, improving wellbeing and fostering an inclusive policing culture.

In the UK, there is no single, unified legal definition of ‘breastfeeding’, but breastfeeding
and expressing milk are protected through several pieces of legislation, including the
Equality Act 2010, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, and the Management of
Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

Returning to work after parental leave can be particularly challenging for parents whose child has complex additional needs or has recently received a diagnosis. Many experience uncertainty, isolation, and concerns about balancing caring responsibilities with work. This document provides support, guidance, and information to help Forces, officers and staff navigate these challenges and access the assistance available to them.

The perinatal period, from pregnancy until up to two years after birth, can bring significant physical, emotional, and lifestyle changes that may affect mental wellbeing. This document provides guidance for police forces on supporting officers and staff who may experience perinatal mental health challenges, including during pregnancy and after the birth or adoption of a child. It outlines legal responsibilities, available support, and good practice to promote wellbeing, improve retention, and create a supportive workplace culture for all parents and caregivers.

This chapter aims to provide guidance for forces and individuals relating to pregnancy and maternity. It seeks to assist forces in ensuring consideration for the different periods from preparing for pregnancy, during pregnancy, preparing for and during leave and preparing for and during return to work.

The 2021/2024 guidance is currently being revised. While much of the existing content remains relevant, some sections have been updated and published as new chapters.

The latest versions of these chapters can be accessed via the links available on the BAWP website resource pages. For any chapters that have not yet been revised, the existing guidance remains valid and should continue to be used.