Federation calls for review of mental health crisis

9 December 2019

The national chair of the Police Federation has called for a review of what he has called a ‘growing mental health crisis’ – with Hertfordshire branch chair Geoff Bardell supporting his stance.

Figures show that police officers have dealt with 28 per cent more cases in the past four years, prompting the national Federation leader John Apter to call for the review.

An Institute for Government Performance Tracker 2019 survey found the number of mental health incidents involving police officers rose from 385,206 to 494,159 between 2014 and 2018. It also showed there was also a 13 per cent increase in the number of people taken to a place of safety by officers under the Mental Health Act.

Commenting on the issue, Geoff said: “Police officers naturally want to help people and will not turn their backs on people suffering a mental health crisis but that does not mean they are the best people to be offering the help and support required.

“People suffering due to mental ill-health need proper assistance from those who are qualified to give it. However, all too often, it is police officers who are trying to the best of their abilities to support these people and I don’t think that’s fair on the officers but, least of all, it’s not fair on the people who are unwell.”

John Apter believes the country is in the grip of a growing mental health crisis with police officers at the forefront of efforts to protect and support vulnerable people.

He explained: “These figures show we have reached beyond tipping point and we would welcome a wider public investigation into these important issues.

“Most people think a police officer’s time is used in dealing solely with crime. However, about 80 per cent is spent dealing with non-crime related incidents involving mental health situations. 

“These situations are extremely complex and often involve individuals in such a state of despair they may wish to end their own lives or hurt other people. I personally know from 27 years of service as a police officer just how emotionally distressing these situations are for my colleagues.

“We urgently need a fresh investigation into this growing issue, where the emphasis must be on providing the best medical option for those in desperate need.”