Police station diversion schemes: role and efficacy in central London

Early diversion of the mentally disordered from custody can be achieved at the police station, particularly for those arrested for minor offences. In theory, sufficient resources already exist at the police station to effect such diversion. However, there is evidence that the system is failing; mentally disordered offenders are being returned uncharged to the 'community', without the opportunity for psychiatric or social intervention being taken. This paper reports on the first 31 months of a police station diversion scheme. Run by CPNs attached to a community mental health team, it aimed to divert from custody minor offenders who would otherwise receive no service. The scheme was intended to act as a catalyst to existing services. In 31 months, it admitted 223 cases (31.4% of referrals). Referrals and admissions were compared with those of the local court diversion scheme. Both admission groups were seriously ill. The police station admissions had committed less serious offences than the court admissions, and had not reached the offending threshold for access to care. Police station schemes can be very effective. Their role is different from that of court schemes. Intervention at the police station may help prevent more serious offending. Services to police stations should be standard.