Kent’s Joint Response Unit (JRU) is enhancing its emergency services with the addition of a new vehicle operating in east Kent. Each JRU unit is staffed by a police officer and a paramedic who work closely together to respond swiftly to incidents, reducing response times and conserving vital resources.
The JRU currently patrols north Kent, Medway, and Swale with two vehicles during evenings and weekends. The unit is supported by Kent Police and is primarily staffed by Special Constabulary volunteers. These volunteers bring valuable skills from their day jobs, including roles such as doctor, solicitor, and environmental enforcement officer, which strengthen the team’s effectiveness.
The JRU was first launched in March 2018, covering Medway and Swale. A second vehicle was added in August 2019 to serve Dartford and Gravesham, followed by a third vehicle introduced in October 2020 to cover east Kent.
Since its inception, the JRU has responded to approximately 4,500 calls, saving the force an estimated £112,495. The unit has also reduced over 1,000 road hours by cutting around 30 minutes per incident. Notably, the JRU has delivered three babies during its operations.
The Care Quality Commission has praised the JRU as an example of “outstanding practice,” encouraging other police forces to develop similar partnerships. Special Inspector Ashley Collick commented: “The team handles everything from road traffic collisions to sudden deaths and assaults. We can often resolve calls without extra resources or rapidly get additional support where needed. Arriving together often de-escalates potentially violent situations, especially those involving alcohol. The third vehicle marks a major step forward in expanding JRUs across Kent and shows the dedication of both police and ambulance services to offer first-rate care.”
Will Bellamy, SECAmb Operating Unit Manager for Dartford and Medway, added: “Extending the JRU in Kent means closer partnership and faster, more efficient response times. It allows us to spend less time at individual incidents so all vehicles can stay ready to help others in need.”
Following 12 calls during its opening weekend, the new east Kent patrol vehicle is now active, demonstrating the Joint Response Unit’s vital role in saving lives, time, and taxpayer money across Kent.
Originally published by UKNIP.
