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Is five years soon enough for new approach to mental distress calls?

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Thu, 31 Aug 2023, 11:58am
Photo / Supplied
Photo / Supplied

Is five years soon enough for new approach to mental distress calls?

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Thu, 31 Aug 2023, 11:58am

On Thursday the Government announced a multi-agency approach in response to 111 mental distress calls.  

It means paramedics will be able to attend mental health-related police callouts, and will be available nationally within five years. 

Police Minister Ginny Anderson says they've piloted co-response teams in six police districts, with great success, and they've seen data showing how it helps people, and saves resources.  

According to Police Association President Chris Cahill, officers attended 77,000 mental health callouts last year. 

He's in favour of the approach but is concerned about the lack of detail around costs and resources.    

Mental Health Foundation Chief Executive, Shaun Robinson, joined Francesca Rudkin.

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