Since its launch in December 2023, West Midlands Ambulance Service’s Mental Health Response Vehicle has supported over 7,200 patients to access specialist mental health paramedics.

In providing this service to patients, there has been a significant reduction in the number of patients conveyed to Emergency Departments, with around 85% avoiding the need to be taken to an Emergency Department.

Richard Corrall, Head of Clinical Practice (Mental Health), said: “It is an incredible achievement to have been able to introduce and embed this service as part of our offer to our patients over the last year.

“My team have worked exceptionally hard to develop new ways of working alongside the knowledge, skills and experience that now make the difference every day to patients.

“We are grateful to those who have supported the development and implementation of this vital service, including NHS England and Integrated Care Boards who have funded this work, my team of Specialist Mental Health Paramedics, those who have undertaken shifts alongside my team on the vehicles, the controllers on the mental health desk who have dispatched the vehicles to appropriate cases, and colleagues across the organisation who have worked to make this possible.

“As we approach the festive period, which can be a difficult time for many, please remember the services that are there to provide support to those experiencing mental distress or ill health. This includes calling NHS 111 and selecting the mental health option to speak directly to a mental health practitioner. 999 is always there in a life-threatening emergency.”

The vehicles are staffed by Specialist Mental Health Paramedics, who have received additional training in Mental Health Practice, and either a Student Paramedic or Technician who have the opportunity to enhance their understanding and knowledge of managing mental health presentations.