Police reinstate Twitter account of inspector who blogs on mental health

West Midlands Police have reinstated the Twitter account of an inspector who wrote a noted blog on mental health issues, after a brief suspension.

Inspector Michael Brown, who runs the blog Mental Health Cop – which can be viewed only by invitation, had the account stopped after monitoring by its corporate communications team.

Inspector Brown has a keen interest in policing related to mental health issues. The Twitter account, @mentalhealthcop, was suspended on 14 February while an investigation was held into allegations of inappropriate use of direct messaging and social media.

In a statement West Midlands Police said the officer had accepted informal advice following the investigation.

“A swift professional standards investigation established that the officer accepted there had been some inappropriate use and informal advice was given,” the force added.

Assistant Chief Constable Garry Forsyth said: “I and my colleagues at West Midlands Police are proud of our social media endeavours, working closely with officers and staff to engage and communicate in new and innovative ways.

“As with any organisation which communicates with the public, we have to ensure that there are parameters around the way information is shared, particularly when that information can be sensitive. I am pleased that this issue has been resolved in a speedy manner to the satisfaction of those directly involved.”

Forsyth added: “It would not be fair or proportionate to release any further detail of this investigation. What I can say is that it’s time to move on and we’re looking forward to return of @MentalHealthCop.

“The real issue here is communicating complex issues in an effective way. I am pleased that @MentalHealthCop will once again be providing views and comment across mental health issues."