Thesis:

Effect of implementation of counseling policy on performance of police officers case of Kamukunji sub-county, Nairobi county

According to the Independent Policing Oversight Authority there are instances of police officers engaging in bribery, extortion, and abuse of power, which undermine public trust and the credibility of the police force. The failure to prioritize mental health has led to increased suicide risk, increased stress and burnout, higher risk of mental health disorders, reduced resilience and coping skills among police officers in Kenya. Therefore, the study sought to assess the effectiveness of implementation of counselling policy on the performance of police in Kamukunji Sub-County, Nairobi County. Specifically, the study sought to find out the effectiveness of trauma management, health, safety and wellbeing training, psycho-social support and management of work-related stress on the performance of police in Kamukunji Sub-County, Nairobi County. The study was anchored on the institutional and organizational assessment model, institutional theory and cognitive activation theory of Stress. Descriptive surveys were employed. The sample included 104 Kamukunji Sub County police officers: 12 management, 5 essential facilities, 8 Kenya police dog, 4 general service, 26 regular duty, 18 traffic, and 30 investigations into crimes. The researcher employed a census design to include all 104 responders since the study population is manageable. The study gathered primary data by structured questionnaires. The researcher conducted a pilot study in Embakasi West Sub- county. Statistical analyses encompassed descriptive methods such as percentages, frequencies, mean, and standard deviation, along with inferential statistics. Moreover, multiple regression analysis was employed to examine the relationship between the dependent variable and several independent variables. The findings were illustrated through tables and figures. The study findings revealed that regular exercise and physical conditioning are viewed as ways to reduce on-duty injuries and enhance officers' endurance and stamina during long shifts. The research findings indicated a positive and statistically significant correlation between trauma management and the performance of police officers in Kamukunji Sub-County (r=0.443; p<0.05). Similarly, there was a positive and statistically significant correlation between health, safety, and wellbeing training and police performance in the same area (r=0.441; p<0.05). Additionally, a strong positive correlation was observed between psycho-social support and police performance (r=0.541; p<0.05). Moreover, a robust positive correlation was identified between the management of work-related stress and police performance in Kamukunji Sub-County (r=0.641; p<0.05). The study recommended that authorities overseeing police departments to allocate sufficient resources to enhance existing mental support services, such as counseling and peer support programs, ensuring accessibility and effectiveness for all officers. The study recommended that police training academies and department heads to implement regular health, safety, and well-being training programs tailored to the specific needs of police officers, covering physical fitness, mental health, and stress management. The study findings will serve as a basis for policy reform, enabling policy makers to advocate for necessary changes, allocate resources effectively, and improve the police officers' general health. It supports the creation of targeted policies that address the unique needs and challenges faced by officers across the country.