Police and partner agencies are marking World Mental Health Day by hosting an online meeting.

Every year on the 10^th October the World Health Organisation joins in celebrating World Mental Health Day. The day raises awareness of mental health conditions with this year’s theme focusing on schizophrenia.

From 3pm to 5pm there will be an opportunity for members of the public to gain advice, find out local hate-related issues or crime, and ask any questions about mental health issues.

Officers will be joined by colleagues from People First and Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.  Representatives from these organisations will be available to offer support and guidance as well as promote the services available in Cumbria.

Chief Inspector Gordon Rutherford said “Following the success of last year’s event the Constabulary is pleased to be involved again in this online meeting. This will provide an opportunity for members of the public to ask us any questions about how we approach mental health issues as an organisation. 

“We are sensitive to the issues and potential barriers in gaining advice and support. This is not only in relation to how we as a Constabulary meet the needs of people experiencing mental health issues, but the part we play in the wider network of the many expert organisations that exist to support individuals. Please take this opportunity to take part in this event.”

Kevin Jackson, Community Engagement Officer for People First, said “I am pleased that this has become an annual event. The close working partnership between Cumbria Constabulary, People First, Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, and other local third sector groups, means that we can offer a live web chat to enable people across the county to ask questions online about mental health.

“This can be done anonymously and from the comfort of their own homes. Hundreds of people take part in the event and it is proving a real success. North Cumbria leads the way in promoting mental health awareness.”

Dr Ronald Siddle, Consultant Psychologist and Clinical Lead for Early Intervention in Psychosis said “Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation Trust provides mental health services across the county which support people to recover and live as independently as possible. This is a great opportunity to raise awareness of the services available and the provisions in place to support people living with mental health conditions in Cumbria.

“Mental health conditions such as schizophrenia often require multiple organisations to work together to ensure a person’s health and social care needs are met and we are delighted to be joining this webchat with our partners.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Richard Rhodes said “I am really encouraged by this joined-up initiative.  I think that the webchat is a great opportunity for those that seek information or support for those experiencing mental health issues to get in touch.  We need to hear what the issues are in order to ensure people have the support they need, and to do this we need to seek creative ways to engage with our communities.”

To take part in the event log on to www.cumbria.police.uk/mentalhealthday