The Rising Burden of Mental Health Incidents on Police in the North East
In recent years, the intersection of mental health and law enforcement has become increasingly pronounced, particularly in the North East of Scotland. New figures released by Police Scotland reveal a concerning trend: police officers are responding to thousands of mental health incidents each year, a situation that has prompted urgent calls for reform and increased funding in mental health services.
The Statistics: A Growing Concern
According to data obtained from Police Scotland, the North East Division—which encompasses Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, and Moray—has seen police officers attend a staggering 1,640 mental health incidents in just the first nine months of this year. This figure underscores the growing pressure on law enforcement to act as the first responders to mental health crises, a role for which they are not primarily trained.
Breaking down the numbers further, Moray recorded 209 mental health incidents, with 21 of those not attended. In Aberdeenshire North, officers responded to 328 incidents, with 64 left unattended. However, it is Aberdeen North that bears the heaviest burden, with 449 mental health alerts logged by September 10. On average, police in the North East are responding to nearly 170 mental health incidents each month, equating to around six calls per day.
The Role of Police Officers: First Responders to Mental Health Crises
Tess White, the Scottish Conservative deputy health spokesperson and North East MSP, has voiced significant concerns regarding this trend. She highlights that police officers are increasingly becoming the “first line of response” for mental health incidents, a role that diverts them from their primary responsibilities of preventing and investigating crime. This shift is particularly alarming given the backdrop of declining police numbers, which further strains the already limited resources available for community safety.
White emphasizes the compassion that police officers demonstrate when dealing with these complex cases. However, she argues that it is crucial for individuals experiencing mental health crises to receive assistance from professionals who are medically trained and equipped to handle such situations. The current model, where police are often the first responders, is not sustainable and raises questions about the adequacy of mental health services in the region.
The Call for Increased Mental Health Funding
In light of these challenges, White is advocating for a significant increase in mental health spending, proposing that it should constitute 10 percent of the frontline NHS budget. This investment, she argues, would alleviate the pressure on emergency services and ensure that individuals receive timely and appropriate care before reaching a crisis point. By addressing mental health needs proactively, the hope is to reduce the number of incidents requiring police intervention, thereby allowing officers to focus on their core duties of maintaining public safety.
The Broader Implications for Community Safety
The implications of this situation extend beyond the immediate strain on police resources. When officers are tied up responding to mental health incidents, it can lead to delays in responding to other crimes, potentially compromising community safety. Furthermore, the lack of adequate mental health support can exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals in crisis, leading to a cycle of repeated incidents and increased pressure on both law enforcement and healthcare systems.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The rising number of mental health incidents requiring police intervention in the North East of Scotland is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. As Tess White has articulated, the current reliance on police as the first responders to mental health crises is not a sustainable solution. It is imperative that the Scottish government takes action to bolster mental health services, ensuring that trained professionals are available to assist those in need. By investing in mental health care, we can not only improve outcomes for individuals but also free up police resources to focus on their essential role in keeping our communities safe.
As this situation continues to evolve, it is crucial for all stakeholders—government officials, healthcare providers, and law enforcement agencies—to collaborate and develop a comprehensive strategy that addresses the mental health crisis while supporting the vital work of police officers in the North East.