An US expert in law enforcement psychology has given a very complimentary evaluation of the 2004-2007 Balances and Wisdom (B & W) Campaign, which was launched by the Psychological Services Group (PSG) in 2004 to promote mental health and work-life balance.

At the invitation of the PSG, Dr Ellen Kirschman conducted a series of seminars in 2007 as a highlight of the campaign as well as an audit of the campaign as an external expert.

In her audit report, Dr Kirschman was particularly impressed by the meticulous planning of the campaign, involvement of different sectors within and outside the Force, extensive programmes "with something of interest for everyone", support by the Force management and out-reaching work of the Police Clinical Psychologists.

"The concepts of work-life balance and positive living optimise the naturally occurring resilient characteristics of most law enforcement officers. And the concepts of reaching out and caring optimise the natural bonding within this professional community," wrote Dr Kirschman. "The B & W Campaign is far more sophisticated and elegant in its conception and implementation than any programmes with which I am associated," she noted.

The past three years saw a comprehensive range of activities organised under the rubric of the campaign. This included numerous roadshows in 2004 and 2007, 13 Balances and Wisdom Seminars, 44 OffBeat articles, seven series of publicity messages on POINT, an essay competition and participation in Healthy Lifestyle Carnivals - all with the aim of reaching out to as many Force members as possible. A "cascading approach" was emphasised particularly amongst supervising officers.

A Carelinks Cadre consisting of volunteer Force members was inaugurated in 2005 to render peer support and assistance in promulgating mental health messages.

In recognizance of the importance of mental health and work-life balance for every Force member, and the fact that it will take time to achieve a long-term cultural change, the Force management has given endorsement for the campaign to continue into the future.

"The momentum must go on. With a balanced heart, wisdom will start. Of course, the continuous success of the campaign will very much depend on the support and collaboration of all Force members, including you and me and the continuous improvement of the upcoming programmes," said a PSG spokesman.

Dr Ellen Kirschman was impressed by the meticulous planning of the 2004-07 Balances and Wisdom Campaign