Metropolitan Police to Cease Attending Mental Health Emergency Calls: Commissioner’s Urgent Decision
Introduction:
The Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, Sir Mark Rowley, has made a significant announcement stating that the police force will no longer respond to emergency calls related to mental health incidents. This decision comes as a result of officers being diverted from their primary role of fighting crime, while patients in need of medical expertise are left underserved. In a letter seen by The Guardian, Rowley outlined his plan and set a deadline of 31 August for health and social care services to prepare for this change, unless there is a threat to life. This move has the potential to raise concerns among ambulance workers, paramedics, and NHS staff who are already under pressure due to budget cuts and stretched mental health services.
The Urgent Need for Change:
Rowley’s letter emphasizes the urgent need for reform, highlighting how the current system is failing both patients and the core responsibilities of the police force. Currently, police officers spend a significant amount of time dealing with mental health issues, resulting in a substantial drain on resources. The letter cites data from a national police study, revealing that officers spend almost a million hours each year waiting in hospitals for mental health patients to be assessed. Rowley emphasizes that this time could be better spent preventing and solving crimes and providing proper support to victims.
The Right Care, Right Person (RCRP) Scheme:
The Commissioner mentions the Right Care, Right Person (RCRP) scheme, which was successfully implemented in Humberside after negotiations between police and health services. Under this scheme, health professionals handle many mental health calls instead of police officers. A report by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary, Fire and Rescue Services found that the RCRP approach improved patient treatment and freed up police resources. Rowley hopes to introduce this scheme in London to alleviate the burden on the police force and enhance patient care.
Challenges and Implications:
While the government supports the nationwide rollout of the RCRP scheme, health chiefs argue that austerity measures have left mental health services lacking the necessary resources. This situation has resulted in police officers becoming de facto mental health responders. The Metropolitan Police’s decision is likely to impact London’s ambulance workers, paramedics, and NHS staff, who may face increased pressure due to this change.
Conclusion:
Sir Mark Rowley’s decision to withdraw the Metropolitan Police from mental health-related emergency calls reflects the pressing need to reallocate resources and prioritize the expertise of medical professionals. This move aims to allow police officers to focus on their core responsibilities of crime prevention, detection, and community safety. The Commissioner’s call for urgent reform urges health and social care officials to develop plans for the RCRP scheme and prepare for the upcoming changes. While this decision is not without its challenges and potential implications, it underscores the necessity of a comprehensive and coordinated approach to address the mental health crisis and ensure the best possible care for those in need.
