POLICE and the Samaritans have launched a new operation to support some of the most vulnerable people officers come into contact with in the borough.

‘Operation Lifesaver’ is a joint initiative between Greater Manchester Police’s Bury Division and Bury Samaritans.

The initiative is hoping to show there is scope for improving links between the public and the charity via the police.

Detective Inspectors Natalie Dalby and Chris Bridge are leading this initiative for the police, in conjunction with Samaritan Terry Holland, who leads the project on behalf of Bury Samaritans.

Mr Holland said: “We have been working in partnership with Bury Division for several years, particularly with the specialist team of officers in the Public Protection Unit, who are responsible for coordinating support for vulnerable people that the police come into contact with.

“We also provide emotional support to people who are held in custody over the weekend.

“Following a joint evaluation of the earlier partnership scheme, we have worked closely together over the last year to extend and strengthen the project.”

He said the charity wanted to increase the reach of this work to ensure that all those who need the kind of emotional support Samaritans can provide have the chance to receive it when they need to.

The result is Operation Lifesaver. Its objective is to increase police referrals into the Bury Samaritans Branch for individuals who are experiencing emotional distress or personal crisis, including feelings of suicide.

The scheme advocates a proactive approach whereby the police will phone Samaritans on behalf of vulnerable individuals.

Superintendent Rick Jackson from GMP Bury said he fully supports the drive for increased referrals.

Detective Inspector Natalie Dalby added: “Operation Lifesaver provides a fantastic opportunity for Greater Manchester Police and Bury Samaritans Branch to work together and benefit some of the most vulnerable people within our community.

“Working more closely together with the Samaritans will enable us to quickly and easily offer support at a time when it is needed the most.”