Inspector praised for role shaping police's approach to mental health

An officer who has helped pave the way for mental health support in policing has been praised for his work.
Insp Steve Baker.Insp Steve Baker.
Insp Steve Baker.

Inspector Steve Baker came to Newcastle from Scotland to pursue his dream of becoming a police officer and now as he says farewell to the job he's loved for three decades, he reflects on his time in policing.

Insp Baker said: "I always wanted to be a police officer and follow in the footsteps of my step-father. I came to Newcastle back in 1991 and I have absolutely no regrets since.

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"I have done many roles from neighbourhood policing to being the PREVENT lead, helping to tackle counter terrorism, but for me my biggest and most rewarding accomplishment is the work I have been part of to improve mental health services in policing.”

He played an integral role in shaping the Force's approach to mental health before landing the role of national Mental Health advisor for the College of Policing and National Police Chiefs’ Council in 2019.

Insp Baker said: "In my role as national lead for mental health for College of Policing, I have been able to influence senior people across the country to better support mental health issues and leaving a legacy and the impact you can have on hearts and minds makes me really proud to leave something behind.”

Insp Baker was also a key part of introducing the Force's Street Triage Team, a dedicated team of mental health specialists who are on hand to deal with those in a mental health crisis scenario, and also designed and delivered the Force's Respond training.

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As Insp Baker hangs up the uniform for now, he's still keen to keep everyone talking about mental health.

He continued: "I think coming out of Covid it has really opened a lot of eyes to the impact mental health can have on people and sadly, there's no vaccine for mental health.

"And when you are as passionate about mental health as I am you can't just hang up your shoes so I will contribute any way I can to raise awareness and keep everyone talking about mental health.

"Northumbria are definitely light-years ahead when it comes to mental health and I am proud to know that's my home Force.”

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Chief Constable of Northumbria Police Winton Keenen has paid tribute to the legacy Insp Baker is leaving.

“It is hard to describe the incredible difference Steve has made to the lives of so many people, both within policing and also to those in the community with whom we come into contact, at what can be very challenging periods in their lives,” he said.

“I would like to personally thank Steve for all he has done to promote mental health and the changes and initiatives he has put in place to ensure we are in a much stronger position to support people than we have ever been.

“As a Force, we are committed to working with our partners to continue to provide the very best service possible to those in need.”