Confidential Mental Health Crisis Line for police staff and officers launches
Monday, 21st July, 2025
An independent and confidential Mental Health Crisis Line has been launched to provide immediate support for anyone working in policing experiencing a mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts.
Available 24/7/365, the Crisis Line can be accessed by calling 0300 131 2789.
It is designed to support people in any role in policing and is not for members of the public.
Developed by Oscar Kilo - The National Police Wellbeing Service (NPWS), the Crisis Line is being delivered in partnership with TASC, The Ambulance Staff Charity, drawing on their experience of delivering a similar service for paramedics and fire fighters. The Crisis Line is staffed with independent, expert counsellors trained in suicide prevention who understand policing.
Now available to anyone working for a police force in England and Wales, the Mental Health Crisis Line has already been available for twelve months in the North-East region. This initial regional roll-out allowed for essential testing and refining of the provision and demonstrated a clear demand for the service.
Service Director for the National Police Wellbeing Service, Andy Rhodes says:
“Life can get really tough for lots of different reasons. Working in policing can add to that. It’s a profession associated with high levels of stress, fatigue and trauma and it can take a toll on your mental health.
“Our officers and staff need access to mental health support when in crisis – no matter the cause.
“The Mental Health Crisis Line is a vital tool to help those in any policing role experiencing a mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts. It will save lives.
“It’s part of our commitment to ensure everyone working in policing has access to first class wellbeing resources. It’s a vital next step in the suicide prevention work we’ve been delivering.”
Policing Minister, Dame Diana Johnson, said:
“Our police workforce faces extraordinary pressures every day, often putting the wellbeing of others before their own.
“This dedicated Mental Health Crisis Support line is a crucial step in ensuring that those who protect us have access to the care and support they need – when they need it most.
“I am proud to stand behind our police, and prouder still that we are building a culture where seeking help is seen as a strength, not a stigma.”
The initial announcement about investment into a 24/7 Mental Health Crisis Line for police officers and staff was made by the Home Secretary at the Police Federation of England and Wales conference in October 2023 as part of the ongoing commitment to the Police Covenant.
The national roll-out has been supported by The College of Policing and The Association of Police and Crime Commissioners.
The Mental Health Crisis Line is being offered in addition to the specialist bereavement counselling already on offer, designed to help those affected by the suicide of a colleague.
To find out more visit: https://oscarkilo.org.uk/crisis-line
