Mental Health Crisis Line for policing is saving lives

January can be a tough time, particularly for those working in policing. With police suicide on the rise, suicide prevention is now more important than ever. Line managers, officers and staff need to know what support is available, how to help colleagues and where to access help themselves.

The Oscar Kilo Mental Health Crisis Line plays a vital role in addressing this challenge by providing immediate, confidential and independent crisis support, dedicated to those working in policing in England and Wales.

Andy Rhodes, NPWS Service Director, says: “Working in policing is tough for lots of reasons and our officers and staff members deserve to have reliable mental health support when in crisis. The Mental Health Crisis Line is a key resource and police leaders and line managers should be aware of it.”

Anyone who calls the number will speak to a qualified counsellor trained in suicide prevention and experienced in helping those who work in the emergency services. Call handlers understand the unique challenges faced by police staff and officers. They’ll stay on the line as long as needed, providing follow up support if necessary.

The Crisis Line is completely confidential from policing – no information will be shared with forces or line managers.

Over the past 6 months, more than 200 calls have been made and received, helping provide vital support for police officers and staff. “We know it has saved lives”, says Andy Rhodes.

“It proves just how important it is to provide a nationwide service so that everyone in policing has a safe space to go when they’re in crisis, with access to confidential and independent support. Wellbeing support in policing isn’t just a nice to have – it’s a non-negotiable obligation.”

The Crisis Line is being delivered in partnership with TASC, The Ambulance Staff Charity, who have delivered a similar service for ambulance staff and fire and rescue staff. The Crisis Line launched nationwide after a successful pilot in the North East region, which allowed for important testing, refining and demonstrating the clear demand for the service.

The Mental Health Crisis Line is a key part of the suicide prevention work and part of the wider work that Oscar Kilo is doing to support Police officers, staff members, leavers and their families.

To find out more about the Crisis Line, visit: https://oscarkilo.org.uk/crisis-line