Quick facts
- Sometimes people with mental health problems may come into contact with the police. The three most common ways are:
- as a victim of crime
- if you are unwell or vulnerable
- if you are accused of committing a crime.
- Our 2013 report reveals that people with mental health problems are:
- more likely to be victims of crime
- likely to feel the impact of being a victim of crime more acutely
- less likely to get the support they need.
- If you are arrested for a committing a crime, it is important that you tell the police (and other professionals) that you have a mental health problem so that you receive the right care and support.
- You have certain rights if you are taken to the police station, including the right to free legal advice and the right to medical help.
Please note
- This guide covers dealing with the police from the point of view of a person with a mental health problem.
- This guide applies to England and Wales.
- This guide contains general legal information, not legal advice. We recommend you get advice from a specialist legal adviser or solicitor who will help you with your specific situation and needs. See Useful contacts for more information.
- The legal information in this guide does not apply to children unless specifically stated.
This information was published in November 2017. We will revise it in 2019.