I have struggled with my mental health for over 20 years. Having worked within the crisis team and reached out to them as a patient, I have experienced both sides of the coin. It genuinely frightens me that crisis team support staff are giving unsolicited suggestions to ‘help’ people get through crises, such as telling suicidal individuals to have a cup of tea or a bath.

Crisis team workers who are not mental health nurses or Approved Mental Health Professionals (AMHPs) need at least basic mental health training. Additionally, there should be a 'desirable' requirement for lived experience during the application process. Crisis support workers should base their support on frameworks like those used by the Samaritans and include input from police negotiators.

These changes can significantly improve the quality of care provided during critical moments and ensure that those in crisis receive appropriate and compassionate support. Please sign this petition to advocate for better training and standards within crisis teams.