Right Care, Right Person will deliver positive outcomes

The Police Federation for Northern Ireland says the PSNI’s Right Care, Right Person (RCRP) initiative is a ‘step-change’ that will deliver positive outcomes for vulnerable people and police officers.

The Chair of the PFNI Liam Kelly said: “We have to think of what’s most appropriate for people who need help and the officers who respond to calls.

“This should streamline the provision of service which is placing huge demand on officers’ time.  

"RCRP is a step-change that’s long overdue. Our officers should be dealing with policing matters, while healthcare professionals should lead on healthcare needs.

“The PSNI simply does not have the funding, training, capacity or capability to continue to provide what is clearly a healthcare function. 

"It will lead to better use of police resources. Every hour released from this health demand creates additional capacity for our officers to protect the public and tackle crime. When our officers are not doing their policing functions, no one is filling that void and, as a result, there is a clear detriment to victims and public safety. 

"We will see better outcomes for everyone. Vulnerable people will receive the most appropriate support, while police officers can properly concentrate on their core responsibilities.”