As police departments nationwide grapple with the increasing demands of modern policing, one thing remains clear: prioritizing officer wellness is no longer optional — it’s essential. For Chief Kevin Lynch of the Bristol (Rhode Island) Police Department, creating a culture of wellness has been a cornerstone of his leadership. Over his tenure, Chief Lynch has implemented innovative programs to support his officers’ mental, physical and emotional wellbeing. His efforts serve as a roadmap for other police chiefs seeking actionable steps to foster healthier, more resilient departments.
Wellness begins with accessibility
When Chief Lynch introduced the Lexipol wellness app - Cordico to his department, he knew it would resonate with his officers, especially the younger generation. “The younger officers we’re hiring today live and breathe with a phone in their hand,” he explained. “Cordico is a fantastic way to reach them 24/7, whether they need mental health support, tools for better sleep, or fitness guidance.”
To encourage officers to engage with the app, Lynch implemented an incentive program. “We buried treasures inside the app,” he said, referring to Easter eggs that officers could uncover by exploring its features. Officers who completed the program were rewarded with a day off every six months. “It incentivized them to spend time on the app, and in doing so, they learned all the tools it offered — not just crisis intervention, but resources for their overall well-being.”
The response from officers has been overwhelmingly positive. The app provides a confidential, immediate connection to help and resources, removing the barriers often associated with traditional employee assistance programs (EAPs). “Having a resource like this at their fingertips, anytime they need it, has made a world of difference,” said Lynch.
Building physical and mental strength
Beyond digital tools, Chief Lynch has revitalized the department’s approach to physical wellness. He spearheaded the renovation of the department’s gym, turning a decades-old facility into a modern fitness center equipped with state-of-the-art commercial-grade equipment. Officers are also granted a one-hour wellness break during their shifts. “Whether they want to exercise, meditate, or just take a breather, this time is theirs to recharge,” said Lynch.
These initiatives have led to noticeable improvements in morale and overall health. “An officer who is healthy and enjoys coming to work is less likely to take sick leave or experience burnout,” Lynch noted. “It’s an investment that pays dividends, not just for the officers, but for the community they serve.”
Extending wellness to retirees
Recognizing that the stresses of policing don’t end at retirement, Chief Lynch has also extended wellness programs to retired officers. Retirees in Bristol have access to the Cordico app and remain connected through department communications and community events. “You don’t spend 20 or 30 years in this profession without carrying some of it with you,” Lynch explained. “We want our retirees to know they’re still part of our family, and we’re here for them.”
Lynch plans to expand the program further in 2025 by offering Cordico to retirees who are no longer active in any capacity with the department. He credits this idea to the Rhode Island State Police, which provides similar resources to their retired personnel. “It’s about showing them that their service still matters and that we care about their well-being long after they’ve left the job,” Lynch said.
A holistic approach to wellness
In addition to these initiatives, the Bristol Police Department integrates wellness into daily operations in other meaningful ways. Officers are encouraged to prioritize their mental health, with tools for managing sleep, stress, and diet available through the Cordico app. Lynch shared how even he benefits: “After a long day of council meetings, I’ll use the app’s soundscapes — waves, rain, things like that — to decompress. It’s not just for crisis moments; it’s for everyday wellness.”
The department also engages with the community in ways that reinforce the connection between officer wellness and public trust. Annual events like their customized National Night Out bring officers, families, and local businesses together, strengthening bonds and creating a positive, supportive environment.
Funding wellness: A priority, not a luxury
For departments worried about funding wellness programs, Lynch offers practical advice. “We’ve utilized forfeiture money from narcotics and other crimes,” he explained. “Those funds are meant for law enforcement benefit, and what better benefit than investing in your personnel? Your people are your greatest asset.”
Lynch emphasizes that the investment is well worth it. “You can buy new cars and equipment, but if your officers aren’t healthy, the community suffers. Healthy officers perform better, build stronger relationships and ultimately make the community safer.”
Advice for other chiefs
For police chiefs looking to replicate Bristol’s success, Lynch stresses the importance of prioritizing wellness in leadership. “Show your officers you care,” he said. “Attend roll calls, know their names, send them an email on their birthday. These small actions make a big difference.”
He also encourages chiefs to think creatively. “Don’t be afraid to try new things, like offering an hour-long wellness break or gamifying a wellness app. It’s about creating a culture where officers feel valued and supported.”
Lynch’s philosophy is simple but profound: “When you invest in your staff, you reap the rewards. A healthy department is a stronger department, and that benefits everyone — the officers, their families, and the community.”
The road ahead
As Chief Lynch prepares for the next chapter of his career, he remains committed to expanding wellness programs across Rhode Island. Recently, the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association hired a dedicated officer wellness coordinator to explore grant opportunities and bring tools like Cordico to every officer in the state. “My goal is for every department, no matter how small, to have access to these resources,” Lynch said. “Wellness isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a necessity.”
Chief Lynch’s leadership serves as an inspiring example of how police departments can make wellness a priority. By investing in their people, departments can create a culture of care, resilience and excellence that benefits everyone they serve.
About Chief Lynch
Chief Kevin M. Lynch was appointed to lead the Bristol (Rhode Island) Police Department in September 2019. He is the Immediate Past President of the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association. Prior to appointment, Chief Lynch spent over 20 years with the Cranston Rhode Island Police Department rising through the ranks and retiring as Commander, Chief of Administration at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Chief Lynch holds a master’s degree from Roger Williams University and is a graduate of Leadership Rhode Island and Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. He is also an adjunct professor of law at Roger Williams University and Bristol Community College.
How does your agency measure up when it comes to wellness? Lexipol’s Wellness solutions help agencies deliver anonymous, 24/7 support, enhance peer support team readiness, and build a culture of wellness. Contact Lexipol at 844-312-9500 to learn more or request a demo.
