FridayOL

Local Hero Honoured: John Thirkettle's Dedication to Mental Health Policing Recognised

In a momentous occasion, John Thirkettle, the dedicated Mental Health Lead at Humberside Police, has been awarded a prestigious MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) as part of the King's Birthday Honours. This remarkable recognition underscores his pivotal role in transforming mental health support within the force and the wider community.

The Right Care Right Person (RCRCP) Programme: A Game Changer

Mr. Thirkettle's most significant contribution lies in his instrumental work in creating and developing the Right Care Right Person (RCRCP) programme. This innovative initiative is designed to ensure individuals experiencing mental health crises receive the most appropriate and timely support. Previously, police officers often found themselves responding to mental health incidents, a situation that stretched resources and wasn't always the best solution for the individual involved.

The RCRCP programme shifts this paradigm. By collaborating closely with mental health professionals and other specialist services, the police can now identify individuals who would benefit from alternative pathways to care. This means diverting people away from the criminal justice system and towards the support they genuinely need, reducing unnecessary police involvement and improving outcomes for those struggling with their mental health.

Impact and Benefits of the RCRCP Programme

The impact of the RCRCP programme has been profound. It has led to a significant reduction in the number of mental health-related incidents handled solely by police officers, freeing up valuable resources to focus on core policing duties. More importantly, it has improved the quality of care received by individuals experiencing mental health crises, ensuring they are connected with the right specialists and support networks.

The programme's success isn’t just confined to Humberside. It has served as a model for other police forces across the UK, demonstrating the effectiveness of collaborative approaches to mental health policing. Mr. Thirkettle’s leadership has been instrumental in spreading this best practice and influencing national policy.

A Well-Deserved Recognition

“This MBE is a testament to John’s unwavering commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable people within our communities,” said Chief Constable Lee Drewery of Humberside Police. “His dedication and innovative thinking have made a real difference, and we are incredibly proud of his achievement.”

John Thirkettle’s story is a powerful reminder of the vital role that police forces can play in supporting mental health and wellbeing. His MBE is a well-deserved recognition of his years of hard work and dedication to creating a more compassionate and effective system of care.

Looking Ahead

The future looks bright for the RCRCP programme, with ongoing efforts to expand its reach and enhance its effectiveness. John Thirkettle’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and shape mental health policing for years to come.