The Mental Health Co-Response program sees an experienced mental health clinician working alongside police officers to respond to call-outs to provide expert assessment and advice where mental health might be a factor.

Starting today, the team will operate seven days a week, between the hours of 11am and 11pm.

Assistant Commissioner of Metropolitan Operations, Scott Duval said the mobile team will support frontline policing operations, providing a new approach to assisting members of the community who are experiencing mental health distress.

“A large number of ‘calls for service’ received by SAPOL involve people suffering from mental health issues and require a medical or welfare response,” Assistant Commissioner Duval said.

“An integrated response between SAPOL and NALHN will provide the opportunity to achieve the best possible outcome for community safety and for vulnerable persons suffering from a mental health crisis.”

Director of Nursing Division of Mental Health Dianne Callahan she welcomed the program.

“The trial aims to provide earlier, enhanced access to mental health assessments, treatment and support for people experiencing mental health crises in incidents attended by police.

“The improved collaboration between police, mental health services and other agencies involved in the management of mental health incidents will support people to access the pathway that best suits their individual needs.

“This provides better opportunities for earlier intervention and diversion from the criminal justice system to the health system or support networks.”

The team is stationed at the Elizabeth Police Complex, and will feature a police officer in uniform with operational equipment working with the mental health clinician in plain clothes, the team will travel in an unmarked vehicle. Jess and Scott (pictured) are part of the newly formed teams.

Jess from NALHN Mental Health Services said “this is about working collaboratively and using our skills in a new way to deliver more positive community outcomes.”

“I’m looking forward to helping people out in the community by connecting them more effectively with services appropriate to their needs,” said police officer Scott.