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Police report success with new mental health response policy

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Suffolk Constabulary says its "Right Care, Right Person" approach has reduced unnecessary callouts and improved response times.

The big picture: The policy, introduced in October 2023, aims to ensure vulnerable people receive support from the most appropriate agencies rather than defaulting to police attendance.

Why it matters: Local police leaders say the change allows officers to focus more on crime and anti-social behaviour while ensuring individuals receive care from those best equipped to help.

By the numbers: Suffolk police have claimed:

  • 45% decrease in police attendance for welfare concerns (2,500 fewer incidents)

  • 23% overall reduction in related calls

  • In the first month of phase two, only 5 out of 23 incidents required police attendance

What they're saying:

  • ACC Eamonn Bridger said, "These figures are very encouraging and demonstrate that the public and our partners are understanding what an appropriate call for police service is."

  • Richard Watson, NHS Suffolk and North East Essex ICB also commented: "We wish to thank Suffolk Constabulary for their considered rollout of Right Care, Right Person, and ensuring that people's wellbeing and safety always remain a top priority."

  • PCC Tim Passmore concluded, “It is absolutely vital that people suffering with mental ill-health are attended to by properly-qualified practitioners. Police officers are not such practitioners, but they will of course still respond where there is a risk to life, or a crime is being committed."

The bottom line: Suffolk Constabulary will continue monitoring the policy's impact and working with partners to refine the approach. Suffolk Constabulary are one of three police forces nationally receiving an enhanced evaluation of the policy by the Home Office, which the force will receive and assess later this year.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Man charged after St Helen's Street assault leaves victim in hospital

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An argument in Ipswich town centre escalated into an assault that left one man in hospital on Tuesday. Police are now seeking dashcam footage as they build their case.

Why it matters: The incident occurred in a busy area of Ipswich's town centre, with police now seeking public assistance to gather additional evidence as they build their case.

The details: Keith McKenzie, 48, of Bond Street, has been charged with assault causing grievous bodily harm.

  • The assault took place at approximately 21:45 on Tuesday near the junction of St Helen's Street and Bond Street

  • A man in his 30s sustained arm injuries following an argument with an unknown assailant

  • The victim walked to Tavern Street to seek help before being taken to hospital

  • He has since been discharged

What's next: McKenzie appeared at Ipswich Magistrates Court on Thursday, 6 February and was remanded in custody. He is due to appear at Ipswich Crown Court on Thursday, 6 March.

How to help: Detectives want to hear from anyone who was driving in the area between 21:35 and 21:50 on Tuesday with dashcam footage that might have captured the altercation.

The bottom line: Anyone with information should contact South CID at Suffolk Police, quoting reference 37/6562/25, via:

  • Website: suffolk.police.uk/tell-us

  • Phone: 101

  • Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111 (anonymously)

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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