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Brutal cuts have seen thousands of police signed off with long-term mental health issues.

More than 9,000 officers have been given leave since 2015 – and experts say things will continue to get worse.

Soaring work demands, disrupted days off and cancelled holidays all add to pressure which is driving cops “over the edge”.

Shadow Police Minister Louise Haigh said: “We can’t keep asking officers to do more and more.

Tory cuts are risking public safety and the health of those who protect us.”

A Freedom of Information request uncovered statistics for 20 forces since 2015. Police Scotland has seen 1,952 officers go off in that time, followed by Essex Police with 738 and the Thames Valley force on 702.

Lib Dem MP Layla Moran said: “Police are being pushed over the edge by this Government. Understaffed, underpaid, undervalued and under siege from a Prime Minister with no respect for them.”

Police Federation chair John Apter said: “Officers see things most people never experience but are expected to brush it off.

“More investment in wellbeing is crucial.”