Two rescued after Tyne jump threats

TWO people who threatened to jump in the River Tyne within minutes of each other were rescued by emergency services.

Police received a call at 3pm on Tuesday with concern for a man who had been threatening to harm himself.

Officers attended the Quayside in Newcastle where the 26-year-old man was spotted entering the water near to the High Level Bridge at about 4.30pm.

A team of officers on the ground and the force’s Marine Unit in the water brought the man to safety.

He was referred to mental health workers after being spoken to by the Street Triage team and he will receive ongoing support.

But just before 5pm, as officers returned to the station, they became aware of a young woman on the wrong side of the railings of the High Level Bridge.

Sergeant Mark Grozier immediately tried to assist her and was able to grab the 18-year-old before she fell into the water below.

She has also since been referred to mental health services.

Superintendent John Bensley said: “The pandemic has had a significant impact on people’s lives and we know it has had a huge impact on everyone’s mental health.

“These two incidents show how alone and desperate some people feel and we all have a responsibility to look out for each other.”

If you need help or support visit: http://www.stopsuicidenenc.org/ You can call 111 which now triages to a dedicated mental support line.

For confidential support from volunteers, including for suicidal thoughts, Samaritans can be contacted free, on 116 123 or by email to jo@samaritans.org

Anyone experiencing mental health problems should also contact their GP for help.