A startling internal survey conducted by the Calgary Police Service has uncovered deep-seated issues affecting employee morale and workplace satisfaction, painting a concerning picture of the organization's internal health.
The comprehensive Employee Engagement Survey, which gathered responses from both sworn officers and civilian staff, revealed that only 36% of employees feel genuinely valued by the organization. This statistic alone highlights a significant disconnect between frontline workers and police leadership.
Key Findings Reveal Systemic Issues
Among the most troubling discoveries was that merely 37% of respondents reported having manageable stress levels, indicating widespread burnout throughout the service. The survey also showed that less than half of employees feel the organization supports their mental health and wellness adequately.
When it comes to leadership confidence, the numbers were equally concerning. Only 42% of employees expressed faith in senior leadership's ability to make positive changes, while just 47% believe the organization is moving in the right direction strategically.
Workplace Culture Under Scrutiny
The survey results point to significant cultural challenges within the police service. A mere 39% of respondents feel comfortable speaking up about concerns without fear of reprisal, suggesting potential issues with psychological safety in the workplace.
Additionally, only 44% believe that the organization effectively addresses inappropriate behavior, raising questions about accountability systems and internal processes for handling misconduct.
Path Forward and Organizational Response
Calgary Police Service administration has acknowledged the concerning results and committed to addressing the identified issues. The survey data is expected to inform new strategies for improving workplace conditions, enhancing leadership effectiveness, and rebuilding trust among employees.
These findings come at a critical time for law enforcement agencies across Canada, as many face similar challenges with recruitment, retention, and organizational culture in the post-pandemic era.
