STRUGGLING police officers in Cumbria are receiving cash grants to help them in the current 'challenging times'.

Cumbria Police Federation, which represents rank-and-file officers in the force, said it was issuing grants to officers dealing with an array of personal issues.

Figures in the group have previously warned that some officers were struggling with the rising cost of living after bills and mortgage rates spiralled.

Ed Russell, chair of Cumbria Police Federation, said: “Policing is difficult. We live in challenging times, and from time to time we all need a little assistance.

"So the federation has started issuing benevolent grants to colleagues who found themselves in circumstances where they needed a bit of extra help. 

“We wanted to do something small for our colleagues; to identify those who were in need of a bit of a helping hand, and give them a small benevolent grant to help them through the toughest times.

“So far we’ve issued grants to colleagues for a wide range of personal issues.” 

Mr Russell said he hoped the 'small cash grants' helped show officers that the federation cared and was there to assist them in their time of need.

Recipients had been grateful and surprised to receive such help, he said.

Encouraging officers to seek support, Mr Russell said: “Talk to your manager about the stuff that impacts you – it might feel uncomfortable to have that conversation, but that is how we support one another, by having those difficult conversations and know that someone is going to listen.

"Then I’d ask managers to get in touch with the Federation.

“These grants are for people who are struggling.

"It doesn’t matter what rank you are, it doesn’t matter what your personal circumstances are.

"Everyone has tough times. I want to encourage those conversations to take place and, where we can help, we will."

The Cumbria Police Federation has previously campaigned for officers to be paid more.

Mr Russell has also recently called on the Government to 'modernise' the way police officer pay rises are decided. 

The pay review body this year recommended a 4.75 per cent pay rise for officers, which was accepted in full.