A rapid response service is helping more people receive the right mental health support, without needing to attend A&E.
Launched in November 2024, the Blue Light Line Rapid Response service provides 24-hour advice and guidance to emergency services, including Sussex Police, South East Coast Ambulance Service and the Coastguard.
From July to December 2025, the service helped prevent over 6,300 A&E
attendances by supporting frontline responders to access more appropriate mental health care.
Mental health practitioners carry out assessments over the phone and advise on the best next steps for people in crisis. This may include connecting people to specialist services such as Staying Well or the Havens, offering more therapeutic alternatives to hospital care.
Between midday and midnight, teams based in Brighton, Crawley, Eastbourne and Worthing can also provide face-to-face support using dedicated response vehicles.
By working closely with emergency services, the programme is helping ensure people receive timely, appropriate care closer to their needs.