Mental health and routine police work

There is concern within the police that too much of their resource is dedicated to mental health calls. In addition, police are not always the best agency to respond.

This study aimed to understand the nature of police contact with people with mental health problems and make recommendations for effective practice. Data was collected from observations and interviews in two police forces, and interviews with partner agencies, service users, and carers.

Despite policy initiatives to scale back police responses to mental health-related calls, there are circumstances where it is still required. Police acknowledge that they have a role in mental health-related risks of harm. However, better coordination is needed between police, mental health services, and ambulance teams to ensure a more joined-up and effective response.