Right Care Right Person model

Lincolnshire Police have joined Forces across the country to begin implementing a new model for dealing with health incidents where police are not always the best agency to respond.

The Right Care Right Person model is moving forward with the signing of a national partnership agreement, which is being signed today (26 July).

They will move forward alongside our partners in a stepped approach, over several months.

Assistant Chief Constable Chris Davison, who is leading the changes in Lincolnshire, said: “We have really positive relationships with our partners in Lincolnshire and the focus for us is to make sure that people get help from the most appropriate agency.

“The Right Care Right Person approach puts at its heart the needs of the person who requires help, some of whom are particularly vulnerable. In many cases, it is not a police officer who is best placed to respond so these changes will provide positive outcomes for those who need it the most while also freeing up police time.

“It’s estimated that if all Forces made the same time savings as Humberside Police, which implemented the scheme first, it will save hours of policing time each year.

“That will give us more time and resource to tackle burglaries, violent crime, and anti-social behaviour, among other crimes.

“Initial reaction from local partners has been really positive and I’m passionate about maintaining those strong links as we move to a position that brings the best outcomes for those who need it the most.”

A toolkit, produced by the College of Policing and National Police Chiefs’ Council, will assist Forces with implementation, including triaging calls.

The changes do not mean that Lincolnshire Police will stop attending incidents involving mental health. Rather, it will provide a much clearer process to ensure that the person in need is seen by the most appropriate agency.

The ultimate destination means that our Force will not attend a health incident unless there is a significant safety risk, or a crime being committed.

Right Care Right Person will be adopted by all Forces in England and Wales.