A debate has unfolded at a recent Somerset County Council scrutiny committee meeting regarding the police response to suicides on the M5 motorway. Councillor Henry Hobhouse, representing Castle Cary for the Liberal Democrats, voiced concerns over the length of time taken to deal with these cases, drawing comparisons with his previous experience working alongside the British Transport Police.
Somerset’s M5 motorway has seen repeated closures and significant congestion over the past year due to traffic collisions and welfare checks, many related to suicide incidents. Councillor Hobhouse highlighted that the British Transport Police typically conclude investigations of railway suicides within two to three hours, whereas the police handling motorway cases often take eight or nine hours.
“On the railways, suicide cases are handled swiftly because they are frequent, enabling an efficient system,” said Councillor Hobhouse. “There are far fewer suicides on roads nationally, but we can learn from the railway policing approach.”
READ MORE: ‘I owe my dog everything after he became obsessed with armpits’
READ MORE: Man convicted of murder with samurai sword in jealousy-fuelled attack
However, Councillor Andy Dingwall (Conservative, Bridgwater East and Bawdrip) challenged this comparison, emphasising the fundamental differences between railways and roads. He noted, “Railways have defined tracks which make it quicker to assess the situation as a tragedy, whereas roads are more complex environments.”
Supporting this view, Avon and Somerset Constabulary’s forensic collision investigation lead officer, Andy Roebuck, explained the legal and procedural differences affecting how suicide investigations are conducted. “It’s not like for like. We are required to operate differently to the British Transport Police due to legal constraints,” he said. “Dealing with suicides is highly traumatic for my staff.”
The discussion also touched on potential preventative measures. Councillor Pauline Ham (Liberal Democrat, Cheddar) enquired about the feasibility of installing barriers or wire mesh on the many bridges over the M5 to impede attempts by those struggling with mental health issues.
“Prevention is always a better approach,” she said. “While it is challenging to persuade someone intent on ending their life, increasing physical obstacles can help.”
Ian Thompson, National Highways’ lead officer for stakeholder relations in the South West, revealed that over 2,200 structures around the M5 have been assessed for vulnerability. He confirmed that National Highways is currently identifying priority locations, designing solutions, and exploring funding options to implement protective measures.
For anyone struggling with mental health issues, organisations such as the Samaritans offer round-the-clock support. They can be reached free of charge on 116 123, via email at [email protected], or through their website at samaritans.org, which provides details of local branches.
“Dealing with suicide investigation is highly traumatic for my staff,” said Avon and Somerset Constabulary’s forensic collision investigation lead, highlighting the emotional toll on those involved.
This exchange underscores the complexities and sensitivities in managing suicide incidents on the M5 and the challenges faced by police and highway authorities in balancing prompt investigation with compassion and prevention efforts.