Advice line cuts mental health detentions by Sussex Police
Between July and December, 536 less people were detained by police than in the six months prior.
Last updated 3rd Mar 2026
A 24 hour advice line is reducing the amount of people police are detaining over mental health in Sussex.
The Blue Light Line Rapid Response service links emergency services with practitioners who can help with assessments and work out appropriate next steps.
Between July and December, 536 less people were detained by police than in the six months prior.
Claire NcNelis, Sussex Police Mental Health Lead, said:
“Blue Light Line provide the much-needed expert advice to our frontline police officers and staff, ensuring we can protect vulnerable people and respond in the most appropriate way.
“It provides reassurance and clear direction of what action should be taken and where patients can access the relevant support.”
The service has also prevented 6391 A&E admissions from ambulance crews.
Dr Oliver Dale, Chief Medical Officer at Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust said:
"When someone is experiencing a mental health crisis, A&E may not be the most therapeutic environment, especially when there are no physical healthcare needs.
This partnership sees our teams supporting emergency responders with specialist mental health advice 24 hours a day, making sure people receive the most appropriate care in the most appropriate setting."