A MAJOR change to shift patterns could be introduced in an effort to combat a rise in stress levels among police.

Three quarters of Thames Valley Police officers said they experienced increasing pressure since the force's new operating model was adopted in June last year.

Many say it has had an adverse impact on their work/life balance and new changes could see them work six days on and four days off from May.

Craig O'Leary, chairman of Thames Valley Police Federation, said: “We are entering the consultation phase and the force have proposed a six on four off pattern.

"The force have listened to the feedback and the overwhelming response from our members.

“This is a really positive result for the hard work of our members and our representatives, so I am very pleased.

"Our members have got what they asked for, which the majority of them are delighted with.”