The street triage team provides a service to assist Durham Constabulary police officers with their decision making if they have concerns regarding someone’s mental health or when considering using a Section 136 of the Mental Health Act.
We offer assessment, advice and support for the people we come into contact with and people experiencing mental health concerns or difficulties within the criminal justice system.
The professional you have seen is a registered mental health professional, who should have given you the opportunity to talk about your concerns.
If the team feel that you do not need a mental health act assessment we will signpost you to the appropriate team to meet your needs. The street triage team will arrange a follow up appointment with you unless you are already open to secondary services in which case your care team will be informed of the assessment and outcome.
All sensitive information will remain confidential as far as possible. However, information will be shared with other professional services should there be risks to yourself or others. With your consent we will inform your GP of your meeting with the team. This is to make sure your GP is fully aware of your needs and can support you.
Aims of the street triage service
- Reduce inappropriate 136 sections of the Mental Health Act
- Liaise with other professionals involved with your care.
- Provide information of services available in your area.
- Signposting to appropriate services to meet identified needs
Useful contact numbers
- Emergency services
If you need the police, ambulance, fire service or any other emergency service
Tel. 999 - NHS 111
For fast medical help when it’s not a 999 emergency
Tel. 111 - Crisis team
For support from our crisis services in a mental health emergency.
Freephone. 0800 0516 171
Support organisations
- Carers UK Advice line: 0808 808 7777
- FRANK: 0800 77 66 00
- Community Drug and Alcohol teams (Durham): 03000 266 666
- NECA Darlington Drug and Alcohol Service: 01325 267230
- MIND: 0300 123 3393
- VCAS (Victim Care and Advice Service): Freephone 0303 0401 099
- Citizens Advice: 0844 499 4110
- Relate: 0300 100 1234
- The Samaritans: Freephone 116123
L982, V5, 04/05/2023 (Archive: 03/05/2026)
