THE number of mental health incidents recorded last year by Devon & Cornwall Police has been revealed by a Freedom of Information (FOI) request.

The total number of incidents flagged as relating to mental health in 2024 was 68,527, the FOI request shows.

Last year’s figure was a slight increase over the year prior.

In 2023 the number of incidents was 67,631.

While some mental health related incidents may need the police, other services may be more appropriate.

Health and social care staff, for example, have the experience and training to provide the relevant physical and mental health support to people in need.

Police use the ‘Right Care, Right Person’ approach to assess if the police are the most appropriate service to respond.