Hampshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Donna Jones, has called for increased investment in mental health services, arguing that better access to early intervention could significantly reduce crime rates.
In an exclusive interview earlier this month with Island Echo, Jones, alongside Joe Robertson MP and Councillor Karen Lucioni, outlined the Commissioner’s key priorities for both Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, emphasizing the need for improved mental health care as a critical component of crime prevention.
Jones highlighted the strong correlation between mental health struggles and criminal behavior, noting that individuals in crisis too often find themselves entangled in the criminal justice system when they should be receiving specialized care.
“Too often, vulnerable individuals who are experiencing mental health crises are taken into custody instead of being directed to a hospital or receiving the care they truly need,” said Jones. “This not only leads to increased criminality but places unnecessary strain on police resources.”
To address these concerns, Jones introduced the role of Mental Health Deployment Coordinator within the control room at Netley last year, a move aimed at ensuring individuals in crisis are connected with appropriate mental health support. However, she emphasized that more needs to be done to ensure that people in distress are given the proper treatment.
Jones further explained the broader impact of untreated mental health issues, stating, “When vulnerable people don’t receive the help they need, the consequences can be devastating—not just for them, but for their families, communities, and society as a whole.”
She added that individuals struggling with mental health issues may experience job loss, homelessness, and relationship breakdowns, potentially leading them to turn to crime, substance abuse, or anti-social behavior. This, in turn, deepens their involvement in the criminal justice system.
“Our police officers encounter this reality daily,” Jones said. “Instead of being placed in a cell, people in crisis should be receiving specialist care.”
To break this cycle, Jones advocates for greater focus on early intervention and improved access to mental health services. “A society that prioritizes mental wellbeing is not only safer and healthier but also more productive,” she said. “By addressing the root causes of offending, we can reduce crime and alleviate pressure on police resources.”
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