Mental health support on way

WA’s Police Minister has confirmed the South West will be included in the rollout of a specialist mental health co-response in mid-2022. Paul Papalia, pictured, told the Times the State Government was committed to the program, which helps divert people experiencing a mental health crisis away from the justice system. The program, which already runs in the metropolitan area, was launched in Geraldton last month. The partnership between police, WA’s Mental Health Commission and the Health Department sees clinicians and officers attend calls for assistance flagged as mental health concerns. The rollout follows Times reports about the lack of any co-ordinated outreach for families affected by suicide, who often find themselves lost in the process involving police and the Coroner’s office. South West Supt Geoff Stewart said the program would have “immense value”. “The difference it will make is without a doubt, first and foremost, to individuals, their families and community and police,” he said. “The changes required are for the police tasked with this role and the other agencies involved to receive additional training to get ready to work together upon implementation. “South West Police are looking forward to this new strategy as it enables us to assist individuals with mental health issues and what they really need other than enforcement.” Supt Stewart said police were in discussion with the Mental Health Commission and Geraldton police about the rollout of the new model. Mr Papalia said the co-response would be supported by Aboriginal healthcare workers. “This initiative has proven to be an effective and timely response to families, and provided much-needed support to our police when dealing with these sometimes difficult situations,” he said. “It involves our police working side by side with mental health practitioners to provide an appropriate response for people experiencing mental health distress.” In regional areas, mental health presentations have been a major factor in police resources. Last year, WA Police recorded 32,666 mental health-related jobs. Mental Health Minister Stephen Dawson said the award-winning program would help stop people “falling through the gaps” and “ensure the respectful treatment of our mental health patients”. Lifeline 13 11 14