The region's ambulance service has added three new mental health-friendly electric vehicles to their fleet to help those in mental health distress. 

East of England Ambulance Service's new Mental Health Response Vehicles have fewer fluorescent markings, electric motors and less clinical interiors with soft lighting.

The new vehicles are being brought in after three rapid-response electric vehicles were added in 2022 and several older East Anglian Ambulances were reported as unsafe. 

Paul Gates, deputy clinical director for EEAST said: "These vehicles are designed to have soothing lighting and a comfortable interior that can help calm people experiencing mental health crisis.”   

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These vehicles will also carry all the necessary equipment for serious life-threatening emergencies so they can respond to a range of emergencies when necessary.

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Mr Gates added; “The three new vehicles we have received are the first of twelve that will increase capacity for EEAST, ensuring patients with urgent and emergency mental health needs get specialist mental health care and support. 

Alfred Bandakpara, deputy director for mental health at NHS Mid and South Essex, said:  “When at breaking point, it is essential to make sure people get the right care, quickly, from the right people.   

"I am delighted that we are able to build on and strengthen existing mental health crisis support services through investment in these new vehicles."