24/7 mental health crisis line launched for police staff across England and Wales

A new confidential mental health crisis line has been launched to support police officers and staff across England and Wales who are experiencing a mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts.

Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the dedicated line—0300 131 2789—is open to anyone working in policing, regardless of role or rank. The service is not available to the general public.

Developed by Oscar Kilo – The National Police Wellbeing Service (NPWS) and delivered in partnership with The Ambulance Staff Charity (TASC), the line is staffed by trained, independent counsellors with expertise in suicide prevention and an understanding of the unique challenges faced by police personnel.

The national launch follows a successful 12-month pilot in the North-East region, where the service was refined and tested to ensure it met the needs of users. The results demonstrated clear demand and positive impact, prompting the full-scale rollout across forces in England and Wales.

“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. 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.”

Andy Rhodes, Service Director for the National Police Wellbeing Service.

The Crisis Line forms part of a broader commitment to officer wellbeing, outlined in the Police Covenant. The initial investment was announced by the Home Secretary in October 2023 at the Police Federation of England and Wales conference. The national expansion has been supported by the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners.

Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson welcomed the initiative: “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’m proud that we are building a culture where seeking help is seen as a strength, not a stigma.”

Alongside the Crisis Line, Oscar Kilo continues to offer specialist bereavement counselling for police personnel affected by the suicide of a colleague, further expanding the suite of wellbeing services available to the workforce.

The industry will once again be gathering at the NEC, Birmingham for The Emergency Services Show, co-located with The Emergency Tech Show on 17-18 September, check out the full exhibitor list here. You can find Oscar Kilo in Hall 4, Stand CZ57.

Oscar Kilo founder Andy Rhodes will also be hosting the Protecting the Protectors Stage on the morning of 17 September. This new CPD-accredited platform will focus on the safety, wellbeing, and resilience of those on the frontline.