Greater Manchester Mayor welcomes plans to ban use of police cells as places of safety

Greater Manchester’s Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd

Welcoming Home Office plans to ban the use of police cells as places of safety for under 18s and only under exceptional circumstances for adults suffering mental ill health, Greater Manchester Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd said: “I have always strongly called for an end to the scandal of children and those suffering mental health problems being held in police custody and I’m glad the Government is finally taking steps to end it.

“Greater Manchester is already leading the way on this issue and has been recognised nationally for its work around mental health crisis care. More than 40 agencies and voluntary organisations, including the police, NHS, the fire service and local authorities, have been working together for more than two years to transform how people suffering mental health problems are treated. This includes a mental health triage scheme that gives police officers 24-hour access to the specialist mental health teams, new Section 136 suites in Bolton and Salford, and the provision of overnight crisis care in Manchester, Wigan and Bolton.

“This work is reaping real benefits including freeing up police time and, more importantly, making sure people with mental health issues are getting the right care and support, from the right people, when they need it most. In 2014-15 just two people suffering mental health crises were held in a police cell.

“Greater Manchester remains committed to providing a better service to the most vulnerable and the devolution of health and social care gives us more opportunities in this area, ensuring local services meet the needs of local people.

“I look forward to seeing the detail of these Home Office proposals and what support the Government will give local areas to bring them to fruition.”