FORMER police sergeant Gordon Campbell Barr’s new workplace is somewhat unique.

His new home, which doubles up as his workplace, can be found floating in King Edward Quay in Colchester.

His old Thames Barge, named Fertile, has been done up inside to look like a luxury apartment, where he now works as a hypnotherapist and counsellor.

But life for Gordon, 53, has not always been plain sailing.

While working as a sergeant in the Suffolk Constabulary, Gordon saw and heard it all.

His role went further beyond that of a typical policeman.

It was his responsibility to speak to those who had been traumatised after tragic or life-changing events.

After 30 years of hearing people’s harrowing stories, he felt the way mental health was handled in the police force was not up to scratch.

Gordon, 53, said: “I used to talk to people who had been through trauma and if they needed further counselling we would refer them. I thought it was done all wrong, so I did a degree in counselling.

“Mental health in the police force is such a big thing, so I did a diploma in hypnotherapy as well.”

It was in August 2016 when he married Susan, 52, he was really inspired to help others rewire their brains. She suffered an illness shortly after they were married. 

Gordon said she was his catalyst for change.

He added: “It’s made me who I am today. She was the catalyst and I can’t thank her enough for what has happened in my life.

“It’s awful but it was quite amazing as well.”

Gordon retired from the police three weeks ago, and has started a new venture as a therapist living on a boat in the Hythe.

He said: “The problem with counselling is it costs up to £60 week after week and it’s going over the same thing.

“With hypnotherapy you are dealing with the issues there and now.

“A lot of people think it’s magical but it’s not, it’s just about focussing the mind.”

He added: “When I became a manager I was looking after people’s welfare, it was a big thing for me dealing with people’s stress and anxiety.

“We had an occupational health team but people used to have to ask to be referred for counselling.

“A lot of people used to fall back on their sergeants and I found more and more people were contacting me as they were not getting support from the police.”

He said the pressures police are under makes mental health a huge issue.

He added: “They just aren’t getting supported. I have only been retired for three weeks and have already picked up several clients who are police officers.

“It’s not about money for me, I can offer it at such a reduced rate.

It’s about giving something back which is why I’m also volunteering at St Helena Hospice once a week.

“I don’t regret the police, it was an amazing career but I’m glad I’m out of it as it’s not the organisation people think it is.”

To contact Gordon, call 0777 639 4878.