A Humberside Police worker who has helped change the way calls related to mental health are responded to has been recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours list.
John Thirkettle, who is the force’s Mental Health Operations Manager, has been awarded an MBE (Member of the British Empire) and is described as a “huge inspiration” by the force as a result of the work he has carried out in the creation and development of the Right Care Right Person (RCRP) programme across the region.
It was designed to change the way emergency services respond to calls in relation to concerns about mental health, ensuring care and support is being delivered by the right person with the right expertise.
The initiative was launched in November 2021 and John has since played a key role in supporting the National Police Chief’s Council in leading the rollout to police forces across England and Wales, as well as developing guidance to health and social care partners.
Chief Constable Chris Todd said: “To have a Humberside Police colleague recognised in the latest UK Honours List is very special.
“John Thirkettle has been instrumental in our Right Care Right Person initiative, which is ultimately about ensuring that the most vulnerable people in our community are attended to by the right professional at the right time. So, the award of an MBE is absolutely deserved.
“Since fully implementing the initiative four years ago, we have saved thousands of police officer hours allowing us to redirect our resources to where they are most needed, safe in the knowledge that people in our community are getting the care they need from the most experienced and relevant provider.”
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