London’s Emergency Response Gets a Major Overhaul
Six months after launching the “Right Care, Right Person” scheme, London’s emergency call system has undergone a shake-up. The initiative ensures people in crisis get help from the right professionals—freeing up police to crack down on serious crime.
Fewer Police at Health Crises, More Cops Fighting Crime
Since November 1, 2023, police deployments to health-related incidents have slumped from 41% to 29%. That’s 6,000 fewer callouts and a massive 34,000 extra hours a month for officers to target criminals and protect communities.
The Met reports a hefty 18% boost in responses to urgent robbery calls. Plus, response times have improved despite more calls coming in. Officers are spending 21% longer on scene, offering stronger support to victims.
Top Brass Praise Game-Changing Results
“This is exactly the change we promised London, and I’m delighted with the progress,” said Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley. He hailed the program for smarter use of police time and better crisis care by healthcare pros.
Detective Superintendent Alistair Vanner added the scheme frees officers from inappropriate mental health callouts, letting them focus where their skills matter most.
New 24/7 Helpline and Teamwork Drive Success
A brand-new round-the-clock helpline lets police vet detentions under the Mental Health Act with NHS experts before taking action—cutting unnecessary detentions and improving decisions.
Daniel Elkeles, Chief Exec of the London Ambulance Service, said: “We now get 200 to 250 referrals a day from police,” highlighting the shift to healthcare-led crisis responses that protect frontline staff and patients alike.
The “Right Care, Right Person” scheme fits with the New Met for London plan, which targets smarter police deployment to boost public safety and help crime victims faster.
