Legal News

Frontline police officers in Greater Manchester are to receive additional training to help raise awareness of mental health in police work – and how police should deal with mental health patients in crisis.

Mental Health Awareness Week runs from 11-17 May and police officers in Greater Manchester will work with mental health specialists to share good practice – and learn more about the support available for those who need help with managing a mental health condition.

Previously forces around the UK have taken part in mental health pilot schemes which have involved mental health staff and nurses being available at police stations or via helplines to advise officers on mental health conditions – and how to spot the symptoms of a mental health condition if a suspect is exhibiting certain behaviour, including aggression or panic.

Manchester’s Chief Constable Sir Peter Fahy has previously said that “tragedies occur” because police are often called out to deal with mental health patients and have not received the appropriate training to deal with a case.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officers are scheduled to attend a presentation at Stepping Hill Hospital in Stockport – as well as a three-day advance awareness course provided by Greater Manchester West Mental Health NHS Trust.

Assistant Chief Constable Rebekah Sutcliffe told Manchester Evening News:

“Sessions such as these provide our officers and staff with a greater understanding of care available to those experiencing mental ill health, which means they can be transferred to the care of partner or voluntary agencies at the earliest opportunity and receive appropriate support.”

Officers in Bolton and North Manchester will meet those with mental health conditions at coffee mornings – and in Rochdale, police officers are taking part in mindfulness sessions to help them manage their own mental health.

Police officers are also due to talk to staff and patients on the Birchhall Ward at Rochdale Infirmary – and will answer questions about police powers and procedures when responding to mental health incidents.

Assistant Chief Constable Sutcliffe added:

“This awareness week is an important one for GMP, as each day we encounter people experiencing mental ill-health.

“It is fantastic to continue to build on the strong links that we have with our healthcare partners, to support our frontline staff doing their best to support people needing our assistance.”

Duncan Lewis Mental Health Solicitors

Duncan Lewis mental health solicitors are the largest provider of Legal Aid mental health services in the UK – and our mental health lawyers are available at short notice to attend appointments at police stations and hospitals nationwide.

Duncan Lewis mental health solicitors can also advise mental health patients on issues such as detention under the Mental Health Act – and access to NHS mental health services.

For expert legal advice on mental health law, call the Duncan Lewis Mental Health Solicitors Helpline on 0203 114 1124.