Should police attend mental health call-outs?

THOUGH people may be shocked to hear that the Met Police will no longer attend emergency calls related to mental health incidents, Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley makes some sensible points.

In my experience, most police forces have little understanding of mental health issues and can sometimes make a difficult situation worse. Sadly, this is also the case with some social services adult care departments and the medical professionals whom Sir Mark considers a better option. This is especially common where a person is living with dementia.

What is lacking is an understanding not just by professionals but society of how dementia can present. Those affected are often unaware until diagnosis and, hopefully, support kicks in.

This is not consistent around the country. Quicker diagnosis and better support is required, which means the Government must be prepared to introduce reforms to help those affected by such issues.

JEANNETTE MEYERS, Ashford, Kent. I AM concerned about the vulnerable people ringing 999 who will no longer be helped. Who will attend when someone is in crisis if the Met refuses to help? Mental health charity Mind has raised concerns about how urgent and non-urgent call-outs will be categorised. Surely the Government needs to provide extra resources.

THE Met quite rightly will no longer respond to non-urgent mental health-related call-outs. I hope the Ambulance Service will stop providing a taxi service for non-life-threatening calls. The 999 services should focus on what we expect them to provide.