Volunteer police officers in Essex have donated £600 raised at their annual barbecue to the charity they work with to challenge those who say there is a stigma over mental health.

Essex Police’s Specials Supt Howard Rayner handed over the cheque to MIND’s Jenny MacPherson during a recent ceremony to welcome new volunteer officers.

Supt Rayner, who is also a trustee of the Essex Police Special Constabulary Charitable Fund, said: “MIND does excellent work to support those suffering from mental health difficulties and their families and friends, their work is invaluable.

“Essex Police is committed to supporting MIND and to raising awareness of the issues faced by those suffering mental health difficulties and it was very rewarding for the Special Constabulary to be able to add to that support with this donation which will help the charity continue to provide their vital service.”

Essex Police has signed up to MIND’s Blue Light Time to Change Pledge which commits the force to challenging mental health stigma and looking after police officers, staff, teams and members of the public.

It aims to raise awareness and create a working environment where officers and staff feel able to speak openly about issues and seek support when needed, as well as being able to look out for colleagues and the public.

The Essex Police Special Constabulary Charitable Fund was originally set up as benevolent fund to support volunteer officers but also now allows for fundraising for other organisations.