AN INITIATIVE to change how people think about mental health is being backed by the county's Police and Crime Commissioner Peter McCall.

'Time to Change – Ask Twice’ is raising awareness for World Mental Health day on October 10 and changing how people act about mental health.

Mr McCall said: “It’s a simple but significant thing we can all do for each other.

"If we are concerned about someone and ask twice, it becomes clear that we have time, are genuinely concerned and wish to help, if we can.

"By caring, contributing and creating supportive networks around us we also initiate a greater sense of neighbourliness and a stronger community spirit. We have made progress in improving mental health services within policing in Cumbria, and by challenging attitudes and perceptions about mental health, we may prevent people’s behaviour escalating to a point of crisis.”