Kent’s pioneering Joint Response Unit (JRU) has introduced a third emergency vehicle to serve east Kent, enhancing its ability to respond swiftly to incidents. The specialist unit, which pairs a police officer with a paramedic, has consistently exceeded call-out targets and reduced response times since it began operating in 2018.
The JRU operates by dispatching a team consisting of one police officer and one paramedic to incidents requiring the expertise of both emergency services. This unique collaboration enables the team to resolve many situations quickly, often avoiding the need for additional patrols or ambulances. The unit currently covers north Kent areas including Medway, Swale, Dartford, Gravesham, and now extends its reach into east Kent.
The unit is primarily staffed by Special Constabulary volunteers who bring professional experience from fields such as medicine, law, and environmental services. Officers hold full police powers, allowing the team to manage a wide range of incidents from road traffic collisions and assaults to sudden deaths and sports injuries. Their presence also helps to de-escalate violent or alcohol-related situations.
Since its launch in March 2018, the JRU has attended approximately 4,500 emergency calls, resulting in savings of over £112,000 for Kent Police. The South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) reports that the unit has saved more than 1,000 hours on the road since April 2020, reducing the average time spent per incident by 30 minutes. Notably, the JRU team has delivered three babies during emergency callouts.
The third JRU vehicle began patrolling on 30 October and responded to 12 calls during its first weekend. The Care Quality Commission recognised the JRU as an “area of outstanding practice” in its 2019 SECAmb inspection, inspiring other emergency services to adopt similar models.
Special Inspector Ashley Collick of Kent Police said, “No two shifts are the same. We can often resolve calls from start to finish or swiftly direct the right backup. The arrival of both services together can stop violence before it begins.” He added, “The third vehicle marks a major step forward in rolling JRUs across Kent. It shows the dedication of our teams to providing a first-rate service.”
Will Bellamy, SECAmb Operating Unit Manager for Dartford and Medway, commented, “I’m thrilled we’ve expanded the JRU in Kent. It strengthens our teamwork with police colleagues, speeds up responses, and frees up other vehicles to handle urgent calls.”
With the expansion of the JRU, Kent’s emergency response system is now faster, more efficient, and more cost-effective than ever before.
Originally published by UKNIP.
