John Long presentation

Mental Health Crisis Care Conference Wednesday 30th April 2014

Deputy Chief Constable John Long QPM

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The Government Position •

"Police officers should be focused on fighting crimes and people with mental health conditions should get the care they need as early as possible”

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Damian Green, Policing Minister

"There are so many people in our prisons with mental health problems which haven't been diagnosed and yet, if we diagnose them and deal with them, we can reduce reoffending.

"It just makes so much sense from everyone's point of view."

Norman Lamb, Health Minister

Working together is vital to ensure people suffering with mental illness receive the care they need.

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Managing Demand •

Mental Health related demands across a wide range of public services are growing and will continue to do so.

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The demand in the Avon and Somerset area for mental health related issues is significant, particularly as agencies reduce service provision to meet fiscal challenges.

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The Constabulary receives approximately 16,000 calls per annum in relation to mental health issues – 47 calls per day. Calls for service with mental health related issues are increasing.

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Although reducing in volume, the number of people detained in police custody as a place of safety remains a significant concern.

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Governance •

Mental Health and Vulnerability Strategic Board

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Local partnership arrangements currently managed at an area/departmental level

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Operating Model - managing risk and harm

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We have an opportunity for a co-ordinated multiagency board to develop consistent approaches across the Avon and Somerset area.

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Looking Forward •

Locally there is some progress in tackling demand and increasing care provision e.g. four beds at Southmead hospital.

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Training of police officers and staff

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Mental Health Crisis Care Concordat

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Multi-agency board for Avon and Somerset?

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Local Mental Health Crisis Declarations

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