Officer who saved man's life recognised at awards ceremony

“A true hero”.

That is how one man described a serving Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary officer who saved his life when he was going through a mental health crisis.

Acting Police Sergeant Chris Weir, of the Aldershot Neighbourhood Policing Team, was called to a concern for welfare incident on 19 February 2021.

It was reported there was a man in crisis at a multi-storey car park on Aldershot High Street.

PC Weir was compassionate and really tried to build a rapport with the man. They spoke for some minutes before PC Weir took an opportunity to pull them to safety. After he had done this he continued to take time to engage with the man in a compassionate and supportive way.

The actions and kind words of the officer were greatly appreciated by the man, who later wrote a letter expressing his gratitude.

He wrote: “I wish for the PC Weir to be recommended for recognition of his public service, empathy and courageous crisis response during my mental health crisis.

“The officer’s swift action and empathising approach saved my life when I was in my darkest hour and I will be eternally grateful.

“I would class him as a true hero, and his positive outlook on life and compassionate attitude gave me a renewed sense of hope.”

PC Weir was recognised at the Chief Constable’s Awards on Friday 22 November for his actions, where he received a Chief Constable's Commendation.

He said: “I am glad that I was able to help someone who was in a very low point in their life and I am very happy to see that this person is now in a much better place.

“Dealing with people suffering with their mental health is a big part of policing. I appreciate the award and recognition, as I was doing a job that officers deal with daily.”

Chief Constable Scott Chilton said: “I want to thank PC Weir for his brave and compassionate response to a member of the public who was going through a mental health crisis.

“His actions saved a man’s life that day and the letter of thanks from that man says it all.

“Many officers will be called to help people in similar situations to this man and I hope all of them are treated with the kindness and compassion displayed by PC Weir.”