Find local news in Kent

Home   Whitstable   News   Article

People suffering with mental health helped at Folkestone West and Whitstable railway stations

08:00, 24 December 2018

updated: 10:58, 24 December 2018

Police have called for greater understanding from the public after dealing with two people suffering with mental health issues at separate stations in one night.

Officers from British Transport Police asked for people not to "make assumptions" when they arrive as they "may have actually saved someone's life".

It comes after officers were sent to Folkestone West railway station just after 10.30pm yesterday, where a man was taken into custody under the Mental Health Act.

Whitstable Railway Station. Picture: Paul Amos
Whitstable Railway Station. Picture: Paul Amos

Officers from British Transport Police, Kent Police and ambulance crews attended the scene and the man was taken to a place of safety.

A post on the British Transport Police's Twitter account said: "He is now in a secure environment with access to the help he needs."

Another crew was despatched to a similar call in Whitstable at about 7.30pm yesterday.

A man was taken to hospital.

Officers later posted a statement saying they had only been sent to calls involving mental health and no crimes.

From their Kent Twitter account, they tweeted: "Tonight has consisted of 0% crime and 100% mental health related incidents for our officers.

"So remember when you see "uniform" don't as was seen tonight make assumptions that we are getting people in trouble because in fact we may have actually just saved someone's life."

If you feel you need help, call the crisis support charity Samaritans on 116 123.

You can also get advice and help here.

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More