Met Police launch new non-urgent number
The Metropolitan Police have launched a new non-urgent number to try to stop people making inappropriate 999 calls. After revelations from around the UK recently about inappropriate calls, the Met is citing two local examples which illustrate exactly what it means by 'non-urgent'. The two calls quoted below were made to the Control room in Ealing:
One man dialled 999 to explain that he'd had a dream about his financial circumstances and felt the need to discuss them.
A woman called 999 after discovering a biscuit on her front doorstep. She thought it was suspicious. After talking to the operator it was felt that no police intervention was necessary.
The number of inappropriate 999 calls – which can prove a drain on resources and potentially endanger people by moving officers to where they are not required – is expected to fall following the launch of the new Met Contact Number – 0300 123 1212.
The new number which launched recently is for non-urgent calls to the MPS. It has been introduced to make it easier for people. It is hoped that providing Londoners with one memorable number will lead to a reduction in the number of inappropriate 999 calls.
Knowing one memorable number should make it easier for people to contact the Met in non-emergency cases.
It is still possible to contact local police stations using existing numbers. In particular, Safer Neighbourhood Teams should still be contacted using their direct telephone numbers. However, people can use 0300 123 1212 to speak to local police, as well as other MPS teams.
The MPS is using a 0300 number in line with Ofcom’s recommendation to public sector bodies.
Insp Steve Singleton from 24/7 policing unit in Ealing said “Whilst we would encourage members of the public to contact police with information and to advise us of circumstances that require a police attendance, callers need to be aware that the 999 number is primarily for emergency use only. The 999 number ought to be dialed if we know that an offence is being committed i.e. “disturbance is taking place” as oppose to “disturbance has taken place”.
If the matter is not an emergency then callers can make use of either the new 0300 123 1212 non emergency number, or contact their local Safer Neighbourhood Team if the matter is a community based problem. The service can then ensure that the correct level of response is achieved”.
He added: “I am convinced that all the people who live or work in Ealing recognise the need and the importance of introduction of the new contact number and will make sound judgement as which number to use should they find themselves in a need of police assistance”.
February 6, 2009
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