Police launch alternative to 999

9:21am Tuesday 14th October 2008

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THE MET has launched a new telephone number for people in London to use in all non-emergency situations.

The new number - 0300 123 1212 - will make it easier for people to contact police and reduce the number of inappropriate 999 calls.

Police say this will enable them to respond quickly and safely to emergency calls and best identify how to respond to other calls.

Response and Patrol commander Simon Bray said: “It is now easier to contact the Met when it is not an emergency as you only need to know this one memorable number.

“When you dial 0300 123 1212 we will take your call seriously and deal with it professionally: one of our operators will put you through to your local police or the team most appropriate to deal with your enquiry."

The 999 number should still be used in an emergency, such as when a crime is happening, or someone is injured, being threatened or in danger.

And Safer Neighbourhood Teams can still be contacted using their direct telephone numbers.

When calling 0300 123 1212 local rates apply from BT landlines. Other networks and calls from mobiles may vary.