NHS 24, Police Scotland, and Scottish Ambulance Service win prestigious Scottish Health Award

NHS 24, in collaboration with Police Scotland and the Scottish Ambulance Service, are honoured to be announced as the winners of the ‘Care for Mental Health Award’ at the Scottish Health Awards 2024.

Awarded to individuals, groups, or teams who provide NHS mental health care for people in Scotland, the accolade celebrates the innovative and collaborative approach taken by NHS 24, Police Scotland, and the Scottish Ambulance Service in streamlining mental health support services. Their joint efforts have improved the accessibility and quality of mental health care, ensuring that individuals receive timely and effective support.

The Scottish Health Awards are held annually and celebrate the achievements of healthcare professionals and organisations that go above and beyond in delivering exceptional care.

Dr Ron Cook, NHS 24’s Medical Director said:

“We are incredibly pleased to be nominated, never mind to win the ‘Care for Mental Health Award.’ This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our teams and our partners at Police Scotland and the Scottish Ambulance Service. Together, we are committed to providing the best possible care for those in need and making a positive impact on mental health services across Scotland.”

Catherine Totten, Head of Service for Mental Health and Dementia at the Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS) said:

“We are absolutely delighted to have won this award alongside our partners, NHS 24 and Police Scotland. We’re extremely proud of the work we have achieved to date, and we will continue to work together and with local health services to ensure that those in mental health crisis receive the right care at the right time.”

Police Scotland’s Chief Superintendent Matt Paden said:

“The Mental Health Pathway is a vital intervention process that ensures those who have not contacted their GP or the Mental Health Hub, but are experiencing mental health crisis, still receive the compassion, help, and support they need and deserve from those best able to provide it.

“We’ve undertaken significant training of our staff within Contact, Command and Control Division to ensure those calling 999 are triaged appropriately and put in contact with a trained mental health practitioner who can suitably address their specific needs.

“I am delighted to see that this Scottish Government funded collaborative approach has been recognised at the Scottish Mental Health Awards.”

• Read more on the partnership between NHS 24, Police Scotland and the Scottish Ambulance Service
• For more information about the Scottish Health Awards and the full list of winners, visit National World