Kent Police has spoken of how it has managed to reduce officer absenteeism by a quarter since 2003.

This is due to a wellbeing initiative introduced in conjunction with business psychology firm Robertson Cooper - whose stress diagnostic tool, Asset, was implemented by the force and is thought to have helped save some 18,600 days annually among 6,200 staff.

Paul Smith, of the force's personnel and training division, told Personnel Today: "As a result of the wellbeing initiatives put in place since 2003, the force has reduced absenteeism by 25 per cent.

"It has seen increased levels of commitment both to and from the organisation and is now collectively fitter and healthier than the average population in the UK."

As well as introducing the Asset programme, the force runs health initiatives at regular intervals as well as diet and fitness masterclasses.