GCXZ

The chief constable added: "I am concerned the current levels of sickness mean some officers have to pick up the work of those not in.

"What I want to do is have a sickness management process that supports those who are genuinely in need."

He pointed out that in comparison nurses at a hospital in his area - Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford - took an average of just seven days off sick a year.

"Policing can be a stressful occupation, but so is being a nurse or a member of any other emergency service or the military," said the chief constable.

Mark Smith, chairman of the Essex Police Federation, which represents rank-and-file officers, blamed high stress levels for the absences.

"Police officers are suffering - they are under pressure and more is being heaped on," he said.

"Managers don't have time to follow sickness procedures and we are not on top of it. There is no welfare system and the stress is too much."

Mr Kavanagh said he would be working with the police federation to improve the system and support officers who genuinely had stress-related illnesses and other conditions.

Nick Alston, Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said: "Compared with many other organisations, the sickness level is quite high.

"I recognise many police officers are involved in physical work and I am also aware that officers are sometimes injured in the course of duty, protecting our communities and keeping us all safe.

"The force must support those officers in their medical and welfare needs, and in their recovery."