"We are concerned that this is being rolled out too quickly, with inadequate local engagement meaning that other agencies risk being unable to pick up any increases in demand for their services."
Commenting on the announcement by the Home Office of a National Partnership Agreement limiting the police response to mental health crises, Cllr David Fothergill, Chairman of the Local Government Association’s Community Wellbeing Board said:
“Councils recognise that the police may not always be the most appropriate service to respond to a mental health crisis and so it is good that this is being clarified through this national agreement.
“However, we are concerned that this is being rolled out too quickly, with inadequate local engagement and partnership working meaning that other agencies risk being unable to pick up any increases in demand for their services. It is also important that the police work closely with their local partners to plan its implementation.
“Mental health services are funded via councils social care budgets which are already under considerable pressure. To deliver the best care possible for those experiencing a mental health crisis, alternative community services need to be fully funded across the country.”