Sick Blue Line: West Midlands Police absence costs £14.4 million

Figures from a Freedom of Information request show that in 2016 a total of 4,416 officers and PCSOs called in sick at some point, while the number of duty days lost was 77,731.83 - the equivalent of 212 years - costing the taxpayer £14,420,894,89.

And a total of 16 per cent (1,099) of the force's 6,662 officers and PCSOs were off work for at least 28 days.

The Police Federation said the service was under increasing pressure due to force budget cuts, which have seen WMP lose 1,746 officers since 2010.

In June Detective Inspector Warren Hines revealed that 570 officers were off sick in just one week, one third of whom were suffering from stress-related illnesses.

Police Federation vice chairman Calum Macleod said a cut of around 20,000 officers in England and Wales since 2009 had increased the pressure on those on the front line.

"You are having officers' rest days cancelled without being given appropriate notice - so they are spending less time with families," he said.

Chris Thurley, WMP assistant director of business partnering, said: "Our officers and PCSOs hold inherently challenging roles many of which carry considerable risk and over the last 12 months over a third of our workforce has had no absence.

"Various supportive measures are in place including counselling support for those dealing with traumatic incidents, a physiotherapy service and general health checks. We also provide advice and guidance through a wellbeing website.

“We are aware that sickness rates have increased slightly over the past few years and realise that colleagues experience genuine illness or sustain injuries on duty which prevent them from attending work.

"These colleagues will continue to be fully supported by the organisation.

“The force also has a range of management initiatives to deal with cases of absence - as well as appropriate interventions and support where necessary - and we will continue to work with our staff to resolve any issues."

Assistant Police and Crime Commissioner Councillor Dr Lynnette Kelly, said: "These figures show the huge pressures that officers and staff are under. The threats that West Midlands Police are dealing with are more complex and higher than ever.

"Due to massive government cuts we have fewer people doing more work and this is putting staff under greater pressure than ever before.

"Nevertheless these figures are a cause for concern and that is why we have greatly increased the support we give to officers and staff.

"We now offer a round the clock counselling service and will continue to do more to support and protect staff.

"Officers and staff are often faced with dangerous situations and far too often are subjected to assaults and aggression."

The Home Office said it recognised the 'uniquely-challenging' work officers did and the demands placed on them.

Home Secretary Amber Rudd has announced £7.5m for a new National Police Welfare Service to complement support provided by individual forces.