There’s an urgent need for ‘validated, professional training’ for police officers at all levels’ says expert Inspector Michael Brown. Leicestershire Police force received Mental Health First Aid Training earlier this year, and it’s hoped that other police areas will follow suit. The need for effective mental health training is never more apparent than now, as we see increased suicide rates amongst those held in custody. A cell is the wrong place for someone with poor mental health, change is needed. According to the College of Policing an estimated 390,000 police incidents in 2012/13 were linked to mental health. Misunderstandings around mental health and the support that is required leads to people being unnecessarily criminalised. This leads to a high prevalence of people with mental health problems caught up in the criminal justice system. Let’s not apply additional trauma to those already ill and in need of vital mental health services. Nationwide training is readily available and we’re waiting to deliver. All we need now is Government support (in real terms) for a country-wide training programme in mental health. Mental Health First Aid is an evidence based course that could meet this urgent need.