The Force attaches great importance to the protection of the rights of mentally incapacitated person (MIP). It is incumbent on all persons to ensure that MIPs who come to the Police’s attention are treated with care, respect, fairness and their special needs are properly catered.
The Working Group to Review the Care of Mentally Incapacitated Persons (“MIP WG”) was established in May 2015. The objective of the MIP WG is to review Police procedures for the care of MIPs, pursuant to the Force’s value of professionalism, fairness, and compassion. The MIP WG also works in partnership with the Social Welfare Department, the Hospital Authority, non-governmental organizations, self-help groups, and MIP Parents' Groups. It has also benefited from the input of medical professionals with relevant expertise in the care of MIPs. This has further enhanced new measures in areas such as Police training and public education. Reference was also made to overseas practices.
To better serve the MIP community, the HKP is introducing a package of new measures, including the “Care Card Scheme”, “Behavioural Indicators Guide” and “Notice to Appropriate Adult”. The new measures aim at better serving the needs of MIPs and facilitating mutual understanding. In parallel to the rollout of the new measures, thematic training on the caring of MIPs has also been given to all regular, auxiliary and civilian members of the HKP to enhance their awareness and professional sensitivity when interacting with MIPs.