THE number of working days lost due to sickness for police officers is continuing to fall, according to a new Greater Manchester Police report.

A total of 80,604 days were lost during the last 12 months compared with 90,383 the year before.

The figure has gradually fallen since 2001 when the figure stood at 101,464 and represents a reduction of 14 days to 11, per officer.

Sickness within support staff has also reduced but at a slower rate from 48,840 in 2001 to 48,059 last year.

There are a wide range of reasons for absences but accidents at home and work account for the largest cause, with a total of 22,723 days lost during the last 12 months. Although still very high, the number fell by 9,874 from the previous year.

Psychological disorders still account for the second largest cause of absence and at 18,019, it amounts to 22 per cent of all the total days lost.

Pregnancy has risen from 781 to 1,487 during 2003.

A number of initiatives to tackle staff sickness are continuing and the levels are regularly monitored. Police chiefs are also due to launch a new strategy on reducing stress in the workplace. The quarterly report on sickness levels iwill be discussed at the Greater Manchester Police Authority meeting on Friday.