'Right Care Right Person' adopted in Kent

Vulnerable people experiencing a health crisis are to benefit from a new multi-agency initiative designed to make sure they receive the most appropriate support.

From today (2 April 2024), Right Care Right Person will be adopted in Kent. The initiative between police forces nationally and the NHS is designed to ensure that when there are concerns for a person’s welfare linked to mental health, medical or social care issues, the right person with the right skills, training and experience will respond instead of the police being the default first responder, as is often the case.

The force already has strong working relationships with the NHS, Kent County Council and Medway Council, and there are a number of existing services available to help officers and those in need of health support, including a dedicated direct phone line for officers to speak to a mental health professional and safe havens across Kent which provide a 24/7 service made up of clinicians and support workers providing a safe space for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis.

Appropriate care

Kent Police’s Assistant Chief Constable for Local Policing Tracey Harman said:

‘We remain committed to ensuring those in distress receive the most appropriate care and support. ‘The force will always have a role to play when there is an immediate threat to life, a breach of the peace or a crime taking place but people in crisis should not be detained by police for long periods whilst waiting for assessment or support from the professionals best placed to provide appropriate care. ‘People who experience a health crisis have access to a wide range of fantastic support services in Kent and this new agreement will help ensure they receive the right care and expertise at the earliest opportunity.’

The National Police Chiefs’ Council and the College of Policing have developed guidance to help police and partners work closely together to ensure health incidents are managed by health-based services unless there is an immediate threat to life or crime being committed.

Partnership

Lee Martin, Chief Delivery Officer at NHS Kent and Medway, said:

‘Right Care Right Person is about ensuring people are cared for by the appropriate agency and professional. ‘NHS and partner organisations in Kent and Medway have worked in partnership with colleagues at Kent Police to prepare for its introduction and will continue to do so. 'Our thanks go to all colleagues in the NHS, voluntary sector, local authorities and Kent Police, who have worked together to create a safe process to support vulnerable people and work colleagues.’

Support

To find out about mental health services and support visit the online Kent and Medway Mental Wellbeing Information Hub