A GMP Officer receives recognition for her contribution in introducing a Mental Health Joint Response Vehicle (MHJRV) service across Greater Manchester

DCI Jane Curran (pictured), who is the strategic lead for mental health, and has 30 years' experience with the force, received the Prevention Branch Award for Problem Solving.

The award recognises the working relationships DCI Curran has built with Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust and Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust to introduce the MHJRV's to Greater Manchester Police.

The main aim of the cars is to allow mental health practitioners, accompanied by an officer, to attend any calls that come through the Force Contact Centre as someone in mental health crisis.

This allows the caller to receive the care that they need - when they need it.

Superintendent Amanda Whitaker-Murray, the mental health lead in the Prevention Branch, said: "Although this is a huge part of our daily business now, we need to identify and encourage problem solving at all levels and encourage partners to look at the wider picture to resolve long-standing issues.

"DCI Curran has worked tirelessly with key partners across the health footprint in Greater Manchester to improve the offer of urgent access support for people suffering mental health crisis.

"Never before have communities across GM had access to a mental health clinician at point of crisis who will offer support and given professional and clinical advice at scene as to what is the best clinical decision for that individual's needs.

"The results have been amazing. This work is an example of excellence in partnership working and true partnership reform. Well done Jane."

DCI Jane Curran said: "I am extremely grateful to receive this reward, which recognises the contribution that this service is making to people's lives. When someone is in a mental health crisis, we want them to know that there is someone coming to provide them with the help that they need.

"I'm thankful that I have the opportunity to work with a fantastic group of dynamic and dedicated mental health professionals in GMMH and Pennine Care, who always strive to put the patient first.

"I'm also grateful for the support and leadership of district supervision and frontline responders who have welcomed mental health colleagues and been open to working differently to deliver the best possible service to our communities.

Anyone who needs mental health support can visit Mental Health Support | Greater Manchester Police (gmp.police.uk).