Association of Police and Crime Commissioners
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Mental health detainees need best possible care

Police and Crime Commissioners have welcomed HM Inspectorate of Constabulary's (HMIC) recommendation that individuals detained by the police with serious mental health issues are best treated in a 'health-based place of safety' and not a police cell.

Responding to the report on detaining individuals under section 136 of the Mental Health Act in police custody, the APCC said:

"People with mental health issues require the best possible support and care.  It is a police officer's role to ensure the safety of the public and individuals who pose a threat to themselves or others.  Too often police officers and police staff are dealing with people with complex mental health needs rather than with the support of experienced and trained medical professionals."

"PCCs support the HMIC call that resources are put in place by commissioners of health, mental health and social services to ensure that people detained under section 136 are assessed quickly in a health-based setting." 

Notes to Editors - PCCs and the APCC

1. For interviews / further information please contact Joel Charles on 07703 124 174.

2. 41 Police and Crime Commissioners replaced Police Authorities on 22.11.12 following elections in every police force area outside London in England and Wales on November 15th 2012.

3. The APCC is a company limited by guarantee. The APCC services are overseen and directed by the Chairman and Board of Directors

APCC Board of Directors;
Chairman of the APCC and Directors: Tony Lloyd PCC
Sir Graham Bright PCC
Anthony Stansfeld PCC
Vera Baird PCC
Ron Ball PCC
Simon Hayes PCC
Cllr Simon Duckworth

4. For the definitive list of PCCs and more information about the Board of the Association of PCCs please visit www.apccs.police.uk

5. The Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC) offers the following services to PCCs:

  • Information on national policing policy issues and legislation.
  • Consults PCCs to enable them to develop policy positions and to influence change.
  • Facilitates the leadership of PCCs on national governance structures such as the College of Policing, National Crime Agency and Police Professional Bodies.
  • Assists PCCs in collaborating to share practice, procure services, and identify ways to achieve efficiencies through working together.


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